Bruno Fernandes wins PFA award for 2025/26 season

Manchester United’s campaign has been shaped by moments of uncertainty, external noise and constant scrutiny around the club’s direction.

Pressure has followed the squad from the opening weeks of the season, with every result magnified as the race for Champions League qualification tightens.

Amid tactical tweaks, injury disruptions and questions about long-term leadership, one figure has remained central to everything United do on the pitch.

Responsibility has not been shared lightly, instead resting heavily on a single creative force in midfield.

That trust has once again been justified as individual excellence cuts through collective inconsistency.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been reunited with his PFA Players’ Player of the Year Top Six Award, underlining his status as one of the Premier League’s most influential performers this season.

The Portugal international has delivered 15 goal contributions in just 20 league appearances, scoring five goals and supplying ten assists to lead the Premier League assist charts so far.

In a United side that has struggled at times for fluency and control, Bruno Fernandes has remained the creative engine, consistently dictating tempo and providing the final pass when margins are tight.

His influence stretches beyond raw numbers, with United’s attacking patterns frequently built around his movement between the lines and his ability to unlock stubborn defences.

Fernandes’ importance is further reflected in his workload, with the captain often covering ground defensively before instantly switching roles to drive attacks forward.

This season has also carried added significance given how close United came to losing him just months ago, with Fernandes on the brink of a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal at the end of last campaign.

That uncertainty cast doubt over his long-term future at Old Trafford, but his decision to stay has since been rewarded with leadership responsibility and renewed trust from within the club.

Rather than allowing speculation to affect his performances, Fernandes has responded with authority, setting standards on and off the pitch while carrying United through difficult spells.

The PFA award, voted for by fellow professionals, reflects the respect he commands across the league, not only for his output but for his relentless competitive edge.

As injuries and form issues have disrupted other areas of the squad, the captain’s availability and consistency have offered a rare sense of stability.

With United still pushing for a strong finish, Fernandes’ form could yet prove decisive in defining how this season is ultimately remembered.