Manchester United’s young striker Benjamin Sesko has openly championed his teammate Bruno Fernandes as the leading candidate for the Premier League Player of the Year accolade, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese play‑maker has on the squad. Sesko’s comments, given in an interview with Sky Sports, underline both his admiration for Fernandes’s technical brilliance and the mentorship he receives from the club captain. Fernandes has emerged as one of the clear favourites for the award after delivering a season that many pundits are already calling historic. The 31‑year‑old midfielder has already supplied 18 assists in the league, a tally that sits just two assists shy of the all‑time single‑season record in the top flight since the competition was rebranded in 1992.
Those numbers, coupled with three league goals, illustrate why his name is constantly mentioned alongside the very best performers in English football. For Sesko, the influence of Fernandes is not just a matter of statistics.
The Slovenian forward, who is enjoying his first full campaign in England, has already netted nine Premier League goals, and four of those strikes were directly set up by his captain’s vision and passing range. “I’m really grateful for the chance to be around him,” Sesko told Sky Sports.
“I get a lot of instructions from Bruno – before training, after training, sometimes even during the session. Whatever he says, I try to follow it without overthinking.” When pressed on whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko was unequivocal: “He’s great.
He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for the rest of us. He should definitely win it.” His endorsement adds a personal dimension to the broader narrative surrounding Fernandes’s campaign, illustrating how the captain’s leadership extends beyond the pitch and into the daily routines of his fellow players.
United’s push for a Champions League spot has intensified, with the club now only a few points away from the coveted top‑five finish that guarantees a return to Europe’s elite competition. The team’s recent form has given Sesko a surge of confidence, and he believes the collective spirit within the squad could translate into major silverware. “We have a great spirit in the team,” he said.
“I’m learning a lot from this experience, surrounded by great players and an excellent coaching staff. I would love to win trophies here – something we’ll always remember.
It will take a lot of work, but I truly believe we have the capacity to achieve it.” Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the secret behind Fernandes’s sustained excellence ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. Carrick noted that the club has deliberately crafted a system that gives the midfielder the freedom to operate in attacking zones while also demanding defensive diligence. “We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform,” Carrick explained.
“Our structure is designed to bring out the best in everyone, even if it means some players have to sacrifice a little for the greater good. Seeing Bruno in advanced positions with a bit of liberty works well for us.” Carrick praised Fernandes’s all‑round contributions, emphasizing that his impact goes far beyond the obvious goals and assists. “He does a lot of work without the ball, especially defensively on Saturdays,” Carrick said.
“He has a huge responsibility, but we trust him because he’s a very intelligent player, creative, and a key figure in the group. It’s about trusting him and placing him where he can make the biggest difference, given his varied qualities.” The admiration from both a young teammate and the interim manager paints a picture of a player who not only excels statistically but also commands respect through his work ethic, leadership, and footballing intellect. As the season progresses, the conversation around Fernandes’s chances of clinching the Player of the Year award will likely intensify, especially if United can maintain their push for a top‑five finish and perhaps add a domestic cup to their résumé.
Beyond the immediate accolades, Sesko’s remarks also hint at a broader cultural shift within Manchester United. The club appears to be fostering an environment where senior figures like Fernandes actively mentor emerging talents, helping them adapt to the rigors of the Premier League. This mentorship model could prove vital as United seeks to rebuild its identity and compete for major honours again. In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s vocal support for Bruno Fernandes underscores the Portuguese midfielder’s pivotal role at Manchester United.
Whether through precise passing that sets up goals, disciplined defensive work, or the intangible leadership he provides, Fernandes has positioned himself as a strong contender for the Premier League Player of the Year. As United’s season unfolds, both the team’s fortunes and Fernandes’s personal accolades remain closely intertwined, promising an exciting narrative for fans and neutrals alike.