Alvaro Fernandez, once considered one of the brightest prospects at Manchester United, is currently enjoying a successful season with Benfica. The talented left-back's performances have not only established him as a key player within the Portuguese side but have also reignited speculation about his potential return to Old Trafford. After making his move to Benfica permanent over the summer, the 21-year-old is focused on his development, insisting he remains content at his current club instead of dwelling on transfer rumors.
Fernandez's career at Manchester United began when he joined the club as a teenager from Real Madrid, and he quickly climbed the ranks within United's famed academy system, earning the Jimmy Murphy Player of the Year award for his efforts. Despite his promising future, he found it difficult to break through Erik ten Hag's first-team plans, resulting in loan spells at Preston North End and Granada. Eventually, he made the jump to Benfica for around £5 million, with the potential for United to re-sign him due to the inclusion of a buy-back clause worth €20 million.
This season at Benfica, he has not only played every match but has also significantly contributed to the team's offensive play, scoring twice and providing one assist across 11 league appearances. With Ruben Amorim recently becoming the head coach at Manchester United, there have been discussions of Fernandez potentially joining his former club, especially since United has experienced issues at left-back, with established players like Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia sidelined by injuries.
Despite the noise surrounding his name, Fernandez is adamant about not being distracted by the transfer speculation. Speaking to Marca, he stated, “I have people close to me, and they are the ones who look at it more. To be honest, I don’t pay much attention to it. I’m focused on what I have to do because I have a game every three days.”
This level-headed approach has been apparent since his departure from Old Trafford. After not making a senior appearance for United, he felt it was time to pursue other opportunities, aiming for consistent playing time to develop his skills as he aspires to represent Spain on the international stage.
Though United fans were left baffled by his exit, feeling he could have been useful during their numerous injury crises, the buy-back option wild hopes of his return alive. Ten Hag himself has withheld opinions on Fernandez’s status, stating they would keep tabs on the player’s progress and remain open to future opportunities. "But playing at Manchester United is not easy. You need experience, and you get development from playing for clubs and leagues closer to your ambitions," he added.
Fernandez’s current situation showcases how talented young players can thrive when provided with the right environment and backing. The former United academy star sees himself building not only on individual achievements but also contributing to his club’s successes, echoing his dreams of winning titles. This prominence at Benfica has had him drawing interest from top clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid, but he insists he wishes to stay on with Benfica for the foreseeable future.
“I want to win titles and continue to grow personally, as I am still only 21 years old,” Fernandez asserted, illustrating his commitment to his current team and the ambitions he holds for his future. He aims to develop at Benfica, and for now, he seems more interested in seizing the opportunity to play regularly rather than entertaining thoughts of switching leagues or clubs.
With the January transfer window drawing closer, the whispers about his potential return to Manchester United, alongside interest from other European giants, have left fans wondering whether there’s still time for Fernandez to make his mark at Old Trafford. Nonetheless, Alvaro stands firm on his path, embracing his role at Benfica and aiming to reach his full potential as he plays out the remainder of the season. Whether he will return to Manchester United remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he is focused on winning and developing where he is planted right now.
