Bruno Fernandes' offer to pay Manchester United staff to watch the FA Cup final was rejected because the club said it would “make them look bad”
Bruno Fernandes' attempt to make a kind gesture ahead of the FA Cup final has been rejected by Manchester United, according to reports.
The Portuguese midfielder played a key role at United Shocking 2-1 victory on Manchester City in May to claim their first FA Cup win since 2016 and their second trophy in two seasons under Erik ten Hag.
It was a difficult season for both United and Fernandes, who was criticised for his leadership during periods of the campaign when United finished eighth, their lowest position in Premier League history.
However the Manchester United The captain's credentials could not be doubted in the days leading up to the FA Cup final.
After United booked their place in the Wembley final, Mr. Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS removed long-standing benefits for staff members planning to travel to Wembley.
It ended a tradition dating back more than 60 years which saw staff allocated free tickets to travel to and from Wembley.
It included a pre-match lunch, a post-match party and one night's accommodation in London, with senior employees being able to bring friends and family with them.
But as a result of the recent cost-cutting measures Implemented by INEOS to comply with the club's profit and sustainability rules, staff members were told they would receive a ticket to the final.
Staff were also told they would have to pay £20 each to pay for their bus journey to the capital and all other benefits would be withdrawn.
The move did not go down well with United staff and it appears Fernandes was not in favour of the restrictions either.
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Reports claim the United captain took matters into his own hands after being left “absolutely horrified” by the decision and offered to pay for staff's trip to London out of his own pocket.
Fernandes wanted the loyal backroom staff, tea ladies, kit men, assistants and others to enjoy their day at the showpiece match.
However, his gesture was rejected by United, who did not want Fernandes' offer to “make them look bad”.
Manchester United declined to comment when contacted by talkSPORT about the claims.
The news of Fernandes' gesture demonstrates the star's commitment and leadership as club captain.
The midfielder proved his importance to the club on and off the pitch, culminating with a superb no-look assist for Kobbie Mainoo's winner in the final.
Fernandes quietly recorded a solid season for United with 15 goals and three assists in 48 appearances for the club in all competitions last season.
