Bruno Fernandes has been voted the Footballer of the Year for 2025/26 by the Football Writers Association, a recognition that underscores his immense value to Manchester United. The Portuguese midfielder becomes the first United player to win the award since Wayne Rooney in 2010.
A Leader On and Off the Pitch
In the aftermath of the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham in Bilbao on May 21, 2025, Fernandes faced the media as he always does, regardless of victory or defeat. Despite occasional histrionics on the pitch, he has consistently represented Manchester United with distinction off it. Following that dismal performance, Fernandes suggested the club might want to sell him, acknowledging how things work. Al-Hilal of the Saudi Pro League were reportedly willing to pay £100 million for him, but the idea was eventually dismissed, much to the relief of fans.
Securing Champions League Football
Without Fernandes' leadership and contributions, United would not be where they are in the Premier League table. The club has secured Champions League qualification, and his influence has been pivotal. He is a worthy winner of the Footballer of the Year award, as few players are as valuable to their team as Fernandes.
Comparisons with Other Contenders
Erling Haaland, who finished third in the voting, is perhaps the only other player with similar importance to his team. Declan Rice finished second, while Gabriel and David Raya also received votes. The fact that United have not had a stellar season does not diminish Fernandes' achievement. His consistency under both Ruben Amorim and Michael Carrick has been remarkable.
Record-Breaking Assists
Fernandes is one short of the Premier League record of 20 assists in a season. His assist rate is historic: he has registered an assist for over 30 percent of United's Premier League goals this season. By comparison, Kevin De Bruyne's 20 assists in 2019/20 accounted for 19.6 percent of City's goals. Statistics, however, do not tell the full story. Watching any United match, Fernandes is nearly always the most influential player on the pitch.
His fellow players may also recognize him in their awards. Fernandes has sharpened his act for managers he respects, and his leadership has been crucial. He is a deserving recipient of the 2025/26 Footballer of the Year award.
