Fernandes 'sad and disillusioned' after Merino's late goal ends Portugal's World Cup

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has expressed his despair after Portugal were eliminated from the World Cup at the last-16 stage, with Mikel Merino’s first-minute stoppage-time goal sealing a defeat to European champions Spain.

Fernandes took to X to address the exit directly, writing: “Sad, frustrated, and disillusioned. This group of players made my expectations high, not only for the quality, but also for the fact of the incredible group that we built over these years. Thank you to all the players, technical team, and all the staff who accompanied and helped us every day during the World Cup. To all the Portuguese, a huge thank you for your support and belief.”

Fernandes started every Portugal game at the tournament but contributed just one assist, with his side finishing second in their group and facing a difficult route to the final as a result. A last-gasp winner against Croatia had carried them through the last-32, but Spain — who had yet to concede a goal in the competition — proved a step too far.

Roberto Martinez’s side held firm for 90 minutes before Merino ghosted into the box and fired past Diogo Costa to end Portugal’s campaign. In the immediate aftermath, Cristiano Ronaldo was visibly emotional, with the match widely expected to mark his final World Cup appearance. Martinez himself confirmed his resignation shortly after the defeat.

For United, the early exit has a practical consequence: Fernandes and Diogo Dalot will return for pre-season ahead of teammates still in the quarter-finals, including Kobbie Mainoo, Lisandro Martinez, and Noussair Mazraoui.

The club’s focus in recent weeks has been on the transfer window, and that is set to continue into July. United have yet to confirm any new arrivals, but Brazilian midfielders Ederson and Andrey Santos are both expected to join. A deal for Ederson has reportedly been in place for some time, while Chelsea’s Santos is set to complete a £50 million move agreed earlier this week.