Manchester United's emerging forward Benjamin Sesko has openly voiced his support for team captain Bruno Fernandes in the race for the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese midfielder has on the squad. Fernandes, who has been a central figure in United’s resurgence this season, is widely regarded as one of the leading candidates for the honour after delivering a campaign that has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike. At 31, Fernandes has already recorded 18 assists in the Premier League this term, a tally that places him just two contributions shy of the all‑time single‑season record that has stood since the league’s inception in 1992.
Such a prolific output underscores his ability to dictate play, unlock defences and create clear‑cut chances for his teammates on a near‑weekly basis. Sesko, who is enjoying his maiden season in English football, has benefited directly from Fernandes’ vision.
Four of the nine league goals that the Slovenian striker has netted so far were set up by the midfield maestro. Reflecting on this partnership, Sesko told Sky Sports that he feels privileged to receive constant guidance from his captain. "I’m getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," he explained. "Every single training session, after training, sometimes even before training – whatever he tells you, you just do it, don’t overthink it.
I’m really grateful for the chance to be around him and learn from his experience." When pressed about whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season prize, Sesko didn’t hesitate. "He’s great. He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for us.
Yes, he should win it," the young forward affirmed, emphasizing both his admiration for the captain’s on‑field qualities and his respect for his leadership off the pitch. United are currently edging closer to securing a Champions League berth, with six points appearing sufficient to guarantee a top‑five finish.
The club’s recent form has injected a fresh wave of confidence throughout the dressing room, and Sesko is convinced that the team possesses the quality to compete for major silverware. "We’ve performed well, and there are still games left, but the spirit in the squad is fantastic," he said.
"I’m learning a lot from this experience. We have great players, an excellent coaching staff, and I truly want to win trophies here. I believe we have the capacity to achieve something memorable, even though we still have a lot of work to do." Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the secret behind Fernandes’ explosive form ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. Carrick noted that the club has built a structure that allows the playmaker to thrive.
"We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform like any top player," Carrick said during a press conference. "We’re trying to create a system that brings out the best in everyone. There are limitations, of course – everyone has to sacrifice a little for the good of the team – but I like seeing Bruno in attacking positions with a degree of freedom." He continued, "He plays for the team and carries a huge responsibility. He performed brilliantly on Saturday, not just with the ball but also with his defensive work.
He’s creative, has a great brain, and is a major influence in the group. Trusting him in the right positions allows him to make the biggest impact, given the various qualities he possesses." Sesko’s endorsement of Fernandes goes beyond mere praise; it reflects a broader cultural shift at United, where younger players are looking up to senior figures for mentorship.
The Slovenian’s comments illustrate how the captain’s leadership style – a blend of tactical acumen, relentless work ethic and personal encouragement – resonates with the squad’s emerging talent. The striker’s own development has been rapid. Arriving from Slovenia’s NK Olimpija Ljubljana, Sesko was initially viewed as a promising prospect, but his adaptation to the physicality and pace of the Premier League has been impressive. He attributes much of his swift acclimatization to the guidance he receives from Fernandes, both during training drills and in match situations.
"Bruno’s instructions are clear and direct. He tells you exactly what to do, and you just execute it," Sesko reiterated. "That level of clarity helps a young player like me settle in faster." Beyond the immediate season, Sesko envisions a future where United consistently challenges for titles.
He believes that the combination of experienced leaders like Fernandes and the infusion of youthful energy creates a balanced squad capable of sustained success. "We have a great spirit, a strong coaching staff, and a clear vision," he said. "If we keep working together, there’s no reason we can’t bring trophies back to Manchester." In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s vocal support for Bruno Fernandes highlights the captain’s pivotal role in United’s current resurgence.
Fernandes’ record‑breaking assist tally, his ability to inspire teammates, and the trust placed in him by both players and the interim manager all point to a player who is not only deserving of individual accolades but also integral to the club’s broader ambitions. As United push for a top‑five finish and a return to European competition, the partnership between the seasoned midfield orchestrator and the hungry young striker could prove to be a defining factor in the season’s outcome.