Why Manchester United extended contract of 'ultimate professional' Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United football director John Murtough has described Bruno Fernandes as the ultimate professional after both parties extended their relationship.

Fernandes has put pen to paper on a new four-year deal with an option to extend for a further year, according to an official statement from the club on Friday.

"Manchester United is delighted to announce that Bruno Fernandes has signed a new contract, which will keep him at the club until June 2026, with the option to extend for a further year," the club said in the statement.

Speaking on the deal, United's football director, Murtough highlighted the importance of the 27-year-old, adding that the Portugal international represents an ideal Manchester United player given his dedication, work rate and fantastic attitude.

"Bruno’s work rate, dedication and fantastic attitude are exactly what we want from a Manchester United player," Murtough said.

"He is the ultimate professional with many fantastic attributes to drive the high standards required to play for this great club.

"Bruno, like everyone across the football club, remains hugely ambitious and determined to deliver sustained success on the pitch to get us back to challenging for titles."

Fernandes, who joined the club in January 2020, has created more chances than anyone at the club since his arrival, scoring 49 goals and providing 39 assists in just 117 games for United.

On the extension, the attacking midfielder says it's an honour and dream come true to play for the Red Devils with whom he has a 'special' relationship.

"From the moment that I joined Manchester United, I have had a special relationship with the club and our amazing fans," Fernandes stated.

"I grew up watching this team, dreaming of getting the chance to play here one day. That dream is now a reality and an honour."

Fernandes, who has already won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award twice, scored two goals for Portugal this week on his 42nd international appearance, against North Macedonia, helping them to seal a place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.