Alvaro Fernandez names three Man Utd players who made him say ‘wow’ when training at Carrington

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Manchester United allowed Alvaro Fernandez to leave the club for Benfica – amid speculation he could return.

Letting Alvaro Fernandez leave Manchester United in the first place was a suspect decision from those in charge at the time.

Fernandez was then sold to Benfica for £5 million in the summer, despite the club’s ongoing need for more support at left-back.

Crucially, Manchester United have a buy-back clause at around £16 million, which gives United some control over the player’s future.

Alvaro Fernandez latest comments on return

Alvaro Fernandez has been asked about a return a couple of times now, with the former Real Madrid prospect focusing on the task at hand.

The current Benfica star told Marca: “I am focused on what I have to do, because I have a game every three days. It is always positive that there are interested parties, everyone wants to improve, but I am doing very well here. United have a buy-back option, but I am very happy here.

“I have a five-year contract with Benfica. I want to win titles and continue to grow, I’m still 21 years old. I want to win, whether with Spain or with Benfica, to continue to grow.”

You would not expect Fernandez to say any different – but speculation has taken a big step up following Ruben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United head coach.

Amorim’s tactics suit Fernandez, with his ability to play at wing-back, amid United’s lack of options at the position, at least healthy ones.

Fernandez on life at United

Alvaro Fernandez signed with Manchester United in 2020 and his time at the club played a major part in his development, even if he did not play a first team appearance.

In addition to his loan spells, at Preston, Granada and Benfica, Fernandez did make the United bench and trained with the first team, after progressive through the academy ranks.

He reflected on three players who initially made his say ‘wow’ when he went out to train at Carrington.

Fernandez explained: “When I was 17 or 18, I was at Manchester United training with Cristiano, Rashford or Cavani and you said ‘Wow’.”

Of that trio, only Marcus Rashford still remains at the club, with Cavani and Ronaldo both departing at different stages in 2022.

Fernandez added that once he got over initially being starstruck, he realised his work-ethic would see him compete just like any other.

“When you go out on the pitch, we are all people. We all have to run. When you do the math, it’s one ball and eleven players.”

Fernandez has been starring in the Champions League for Benfica this season, showing he belongs at a high level.

His future is in United’s hands – but he won’t be the only player under consideration for a move at the position, should the club decide to strengthen.