Alvaro Fernandez has reiterated his loyalty to Benfica, the club that gave him the opportunity to showcase his potential on football’s grandest stages.
At just 21, the left-back has quickly become one of Benfica’s standout players and remains grateful for their belief in him, stating he “owes them everything.”
Fernandez’s football journey has been eventful. Starting at Deportivo La Coruna and Real Madrid’s youth academies, he joined Manchester United in 2020 but never broke into the first team.
Following loan spells at Preston and Granada, he arrived at Benfica on a short-term deal in January 2024, which became permanent that summer.
The Spaniard has since made an immediate impact, featuring in 30 matches across all competitions this season and scoring three goals. His performances have attracted attention from European powerhouses like Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Even Manchester United is reportedly considering activating a buy-back clause in his contract to bring him back to Old Trafford.
Despite these links, Fernandez isn’t distracted by transfer speculation. “I have a long-term contract here at Benfica, and I’m happy. They gave me the opportunity to grow, and I owe them everything,” he remarked.
Speculation about a potential move was fueled by his impressive performance in Benfica’s thrilling 5-4 loss to Barcelona in the Champions League.
While La Liga giants may be monitoring him, Manchester United holds a stronger hand due to the €18 million buy-back clause valid until summer 2026.
United sold Fernandez to Benfica for €6 million, with an additional €3 million in potential add-ons, a deal now considered a bargain.
Manager Ruben Amorim is keen on strengthening his left wing-back options, especially with Luke Shaw sidelined by injuries, limiting him to just three appearances this season. Diogo Dalot has been filling in but lacks the natural fit for Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation.
Although Fernandez tops United’s wishlist, the club is also exploring alternatives, including Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu. For now, however, Fernandez remains committed to Benfica, focused on repaying the faith the club placed in him.