Manchester United’s emerging forward Benjamin Sesko has openly championed teammate Bruno Fernandes as the leading candidate for the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese play‑maker has on the squad. Sesko, who is enjoying a breakthrough season in England, said that Fernandes’ leadership and on‑field vision have been instrumental not only for his own development but also for the team’s overall performance. Fernandes is widely regarded as one of the frontrunners for the accolade after delivering an exceptional campaign for United.
The 31‑year‑old midfielder has already registered 18 assists in the Premier League this season, a tally that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record set in 1992. Those numbers underline his ability to create chances, dictate tempo, and unlock defences with his precise passing and intelligent movement. Sesko’s own statistics reflect Fernandes’ influence. Out of the nine league goals Sesko has scored in his debut English season, four have come directly from passes supplied by Fernandes.
The Slovenian striker expressed gratitude for the chance to learn from his captain, noting that the mentorship extends beyond match days. "I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko told Sky Sports.
"Every single training, after training, sometimes before training. Whatever he tells you, just do it, don’t think twice. And that’s what I said.
I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to be around him." When pressed about whether Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko was unequivocal: "He’s great. He’s my teammate. And of course, always stand up for my teammates, yeah, he should win it." United are edging closer to a Champions League return, with six points likely sufficient to secure a top‑five finish. The club’s resurgence has boosted the confidence of younger players like Sesko, who now believes the squad possesses the quality to compete for major trophies.
"I think we did great. Still, some games left, but I think we’re doing great. We have a great spirit in the team.
I’m learning a lot from the experience. We are here, great players, great coaching staff," Sesko said. "I would like to really achieve some trophies here. I think there would be something that we just can’t forget in life at all.
And of course, we need to do a lot for it, but I believe we have the capacity to do that." Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the secret behind Fernandes’ form ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. Carrick explained that the club has deliberately built a platform that allows Fernandes to thrive. "I think we’ve given Bruno the platform to go and perform like all the players," Carrick said during his press conference. "We’re trying to create the structure and a team set‑up to bring out the best in everyone.
There are obviously limitations – everyone has to sacrifice a little for the good of the team – but I like seeing Bruno in attacking positions with a bit of freedom." Carrick praised Fernandes’ work rate, noting his contributions even when he is not in possession of the ball. "He obviously plays for the team, and he has big responsibility within that.
He did that ever so well, especially on Saturday, without the ball and the defensive work that he did. So he’s got big responsibility, but trusting him, trusting him, you know, he’s a very good player. He sees things; he’s creative. He’s got a really good brain.
He’s a big part of the group as well, and a big influence. A lot of it is trust and putting him in a position where he can make the biggest difference with the qualities he’s got." The mutual respect between Sesko and Fernandes illustrates a broader cultural shift at United, where senior players are encouraged to mentor the next generation.
Sesko’s comments about receiving constant guidance – whether before, during, or after training sessions – reflect a learning environment that values communication and humility. This dynamic has helped the young striker adapt quickly to the physical and tactical demands of the Premier League. Beyond the immediate statistics, Fernandes’ impact can be measured in the way United’s attacking patterns have evolved. His ability to drop deep, link play, and deliver pinpoint passes creates space for forwards like Sesko, Rashford, and Martial.
The increased fluidity has resulted in more goal‑scoring opportunities, a higher conversion rate, and a more confident team overall. Looking ahead, Sesko believes United’s momentum will continue, especially if they maintain the supportive atmosphere that has fostered his own growth. "We have a great spirit in the team, and I’m learning a lot from the experience.
I want to win trophies here, and I think we have the capacity to do that. The leadership from players like Bruno makes a huge difference," he said.
"When you have someone who sets the standard and helps you improve every day, it lifts everyone’s game." In summary, Sesko’s endorsement of Fernandes underscores the midfielder’s dual role as both a creative engine and a mentor. As United push for a top‑five finish and a return to European competition, the partnership between the seasoned captain and the promising youngster could prove pivotal in achieving the club’s ambitions.