Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been named the Football Writers' Association Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season, recognising his outstanding form that helped the club secure a return to the Champions League.
Fernandes on Winning the FWA Award
Speaking exclusively to Mirror Football, Fernandes expressed his delight at the honour. "It's always nice to see a lot of people have voted for you. I know this is a massive award in the UK, and for me it's very special. The club have not had a winner since 2010 with Wayne Rooney, and that makes it even more special."
He added: "It comes from people who follow football from all around the UK, people who work behind the scenes. It makes it very special. You like to see good things about you, but when these moments come, I'm very grateful."
Joining United Greats
Fernandes acknowledged the esteemed company he now keeps, including George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Roy Keane. "It means a lot. I'd rather it was a collective award, but individually it shows you are doing things right. Being in their company is massively important."
Connection with Manchester United
The Portuguese playmaker spoke of his bond with the club and fans. "I really feel the love and support from the fans every time I step onto the pitch at Old Trafford. They believe in me as one of their own. I try to do my best to make them proud while ensuring we are as successful as possible."
Assist Record in Sight
Fernandes is close to breaking the Premier League record for assists in a season, currently held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne with 20. "It's a very special record because it's owned by Thierry and Kevin. They were standout players for many years. But I don't want to focus on that too much because we want to achieve our targets, like getting back into the Champions League."
He added: "Part of my game is creating chances and helping teammates score. If I have the chance to score myself, I'll take it. That record would be an amazing achievement, but not something I want to focus on."
Favourite Assist This Season
When asked about his favourite assist, Fernandes highlighted a pass for Bryan Mbeumo in the Manchester derby. "People talk about set-pieces, but sometimes it's more difficult to make a 40-50 metre run to move the centre-back and give space to Bryan. He still had to put the ball in, but it was a crucial game after two difficult weeks."
Michael Carrick's Impact
Fernandes praised interim manager Michael Carrick, who has overseen a significant improvement. "I worked under him as assistant manager and always said he has the character to become a top manager. He has the calmness and experience. He did well at Middlesbrough, and luckily he was available for us. He has done an amazing job. It's up to the club to decide whether to keep faith with him."
Passion and Ambition
Fernandes admitted he wears his heart on his sleeve. "I am very bad at hiding my emotions. I really show what I feel. Some people take it positively, others negatively. But I can't change the way I am. I can adapt and improve every day."
On winning major trophies with United, he said: "That's always been my goal. I've never hidden from that. I want to win the league and the Champions League. I won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, but I wasn't able to bring home the Europa League. Going into next season, the aim has to be winning. That's why I came to this club."
Portugal's World Cup Hopes
Looking ahead to the summer, Fernandes is excited about Portugal's prospects. "Portugal has never won the World Cup. We have a beautiful squad with players doing very well at their clubs. We have to focus on bringing the best out of each other in a short period. We want to get home on July 20 with the trophy."
