Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has admitted he wished Declan Rice had joined him at Old Trafford.
This revelation comes ahead of Rice's club-record transfer to rivals Arsenal in the summer of 2023.
Fernandes and Rice share a strong personal connection, having trained together in the lead-up to Rice's high-profile move from West Ham United.
The midfielder's comments also follow closely on the heels of him narrowly beating Rice to the prestigious FWA Footballer of the Year award. Fernandes secured the accolade by a slender margin of just 28 votes.
This personal award serves as a testament to the mutual respect and strong camaraderie that exists between the two prominent English midfielders, even with their differing club loyalties.
Fernandes' candid remarks hint at a potential desire for him to forge stronger midfield partnerships at Manchester United. It may also suggest a touch of wistfulness over opportunities missed to play alongside some of the game's top talents at his current club.
The incredibly close race for the FWA award further emphasizes the immense respect and high regard in which both players are held by the football media.
It's clear that Fernandes values Rice's qualities and would have welcomed him to Manchester United if the opportunity had arisen.
