Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has expressed his regret over Everton’s men’s team departing Goodison Park. David Moyes’ squad will play their last match at the legendary ground on Sunday afternoon against Southampton. Everton has been based at Goodison since 1892, with the venue hosting more top-tier matches than any other stadium in England.

The Toffees are set to relocate to a new site at Bramley-Moore Dock at the start of the 2025/26 season, while the club’s women’s team will call Goodison Park their permanent home from next season. United’s men played to a 2-2 draw in their last outing at Goodison in February, with Fernandes being the second-to-last scorer before Manuel Ugarte’s thrilling equalizer from a 2-0 deficit.

The Portuguese midfielder shared his thoughts on the transition, having netted his first away goal for United at the renowned Merseyside location in March 2020. “It is somewhat disheartening, as some stadiums hold such iconic status that initially, everyone feels a bit let down by the transition,” he mentioned to Inside United via the club’s official platform.

“I believe the Everton supporters will be thrilled with a larger stadium now. A bigger arena, offering superior facilities, is always beneficial. We carry with us the memories a stadium engrains in football. It’s a particularly special stadium with an outstanding atmosphere. I hope they can replicate that ambiance at the new venue because it’s a delightful place to compete due to the vibrant atmosphere. It’s incredibly loud in there,” he continued.

“I relish playing in stadiums like these because they fuel your passion as a player,” he elaborated. “Growing up, observing such places ignites your enthusiasm. You aspire to be in that stadium, amidst that kind of energy. I’ve made wonderful memories there. It’s a stadium that will remain iconic. Yet now, it’s time for Everton fans and players to forge new memories in the new establishment. What’s also positive is that this signifies the club is advancing, aiming for growth, and offering more opportunities for fans to attend games.”