Bruno Fernandes could leave Manchester United if Erik ten Hag is appointed manager, according to a former United player.
Ten Hag is edging closer to being announced as the next United boss with Ajax expecting him to leave for Old Trafford in the summer. He will be eager to orchestrate a revamp which may see a number of players go through the exit door.
One report has claimed Cristiano Ronaldo is not part of Ten Hag’s long-term plans and may leave at the end of the season. Meanwhile, one former United midfielder believes his Portugal teammate could also potentially make an exit of his own accord.
READ MORE: Manchester United to wait for Erik ten Hag on transfer targets
Speaking to Paddy Power (via the Mirror), Jose Kleberson - who played under Sir Alex Ferguson between 2003 and 2005 - suggested Fernandes could decide to leave the club. "I can see a lot of players at Manchester United leaving if they appoint a new manager who is building for the long-term,” he said.
“It gives Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo the opportunity to leave the club as a lot of things can change with a new manager.” However, he underlined the importance of keeping Fernandes, who has been a driving force for United since signing in January 2020.
He added: "Fernandes is a special player and Manchester United need a player who can decide the game and create something in important moments. It's hard when there are so many quality players and big names. It's important to keep players like Bruno Fernandes to prepare properly for the future.”
United are on the hunt for central midfielders this summer with Paul Pogba set to leave at the end of his contract. Kleberson seemed to hint that uncertainty also surrounds captain Harry Maguire, who has had an underwhelming season. He explained how Ten Hag’s style of play leads to the retention of possession which would suit some of United’s other high-profile players.
The Brazilian continued: “We don't know what’s going to happen with Harry Maguire. Erik ten Hag would represent a change in style as his teams like to have the ball and have more possession and that could help the quality players at United like Paul Pogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcus Rashford – they like to have the ball at their feet.
"It's hard to say if Ten Hag is the best option for Manchester United. He'll need to make a lot of big decisions regarding the full squad ahead of next season in terms of who is going to leave. Appointing him would be a long-term project because it will take some time to get the players used to his style of play."
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