Bruno Fernandes 'stunned' by INEOS decision as Man Utd captain speaks out

has admitted he expected Poland midfielder Maxi Oyedele to break into the Manchester United first team before his summer exit.

United sanctioned Oyedele's permanent move to Legia Warsaw for around £500,000, which is said to have left the club captain "stunned".

The Red Devils hosted a clearout as attempted to raise funds to back Erik ten Hag with another £200million in the transfer market.

Oyedele joined fellow academy products, including and , in leaving to provide the club with pure profit, boosting their FFP and PSR compliance.

The 19-year-old spent loan spells at Altrincham and Forest Green Rovers in the latter stages of his United career before heading to Warsaw.

While born in Salford, Oyedele is the son of a Polish mother and a Nigerian father. He chose to represent Poland at youth level from the U18s up to the U21s.

Four appearances into his time at Legia, he received a surprise call-up to Micha Probierz's senior Poland squad for this month's UEFA Nations League games against Portugal and Croatia.

Oyedele earned his maiden cap by starting in Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Portugal, playing 66 minutes before being replaced by Jakub Moder.

Fernandes was in the opposition dressing room at the PGE Narodowy, providing the assist for Bernardo Silva's opener before Cristiano Ronaldo and Jan Bednarek's own goal put the result out of doubt.

After full-time, Fernandes discussed Oyedele's progress since leaving Manchester, admitting he expected to be teaming up with him in Erik ten Hag's plans.

"I think he was always one of the players that everyone at the club thought he would be one of the ones coming from the Academy into the first-team," the 30-year-old playmaker explained.

"He has great qualities, he's a great kid and really humble."

Fernandes' comments follow those of Legia head coach Goncalo Feio, who has claimed the United No. 8 was privately shocked by Oyedele's transfer after being left impressed during pre-season.

He said: "Following our match against Gornik, I mentioned we were dealing with a player destined to represent the Polish national team. I had no idea that he would be called up just two days later.

"Oyedele's quality on the ball, his character in retaining possession, and his tactical awareness when to dribble or play simply are significant attributes.

"Bruno even remarked he was stunned regarding United's decision to sell him, given Oyedele's exceptional showing during pre-season.

"His playing level is closely connected to the success he has in battles within the central area of the pitch. His physical readiness, agility, and ability to use his body effectively are top-notch.

"While fans and perhaps journalists love to see what he can do with the ball, Maxi brings essential physicality to our midfield - a crucial element in today's football.

"Of course, his current form is bolstered by those around him, who trust him and provide the support he needs to shine. It's our responsibility to foster his development. Polish football stands to gain immensely from his talent."