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Bruno Fernandes named Premier League player of the season
23rd May, 2026 02:09 PM
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has won the Premier League Player of the Season award after scoring eight goals and equalling the record for most assists in a single campaign with 20, alongside Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
His goal contributions helped Man Utd reach Champions League.
More accolades
This comes shortly after the Portuguese was crowned the men’s footballer of the year by the Football Writers’ Association following an outstanding campaign with Manchester United.
The playmaker has registered eight goals and 20 assists in 34 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils this term. He secured 45 per cent of the votes cast by more than 900 FWA members. Fernandes edged out Declan Rice of Arsenal by 28 votes, while Erling Haaland from Manchester City finished third in the standings.
The 31-year-old has been instrumental in United’s improved displays since interim manager Michael Carrick took charge. Although the club is expected to end the campaign without silverware for a second straight year, they remain on track for a third-place finish in the Premier League and qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
His brilliant 2025-26 season comes after uncertainty over his future in 2025. United officials had informed him they would not block a transfer should he choose to accept a lucrative move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League. However, Fernandes opted to stay and later turned down approaches from several European sides.
In 2025, amid growing speculation surrounding his future at Old Trafford, many questioned how United would cope without him.
His current contract runs until 2027 and reportedly includes an option for an extra year. Following his influential performances this season, United are now expected to consider offering him improved terms despite co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe aiming to reduce the club’s wage bill.
Fernandes conveyed gratitude to his teammates after equalling the all-time single-season assist record during an entertaining 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
“Everyone knew that [the assist record] was important. They were trying everything they could to score from my passes. I’m very happy, but more than that, I’m happy for the win,” he said.
