Manchester United’s young striker Benjamin Sesko has publicly voiced his support for teammate 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. Sesko’s endorsement comes after a season in which Fernandes has consistently delivered elite performances, positioning him among the clear favourites for the accolade. Fernandes, now 31, has already recorded 18 assists in this Premier League campaign, a tally that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record established in 1992.
Those numbers underscore his creative prowess and his ability to dictate play for United. The statistic is even more impressive when considered alongside his contribution of three goals, demonstrating a balanced blend of goal‑scoring and playmaking. For the Slovakian forward, Fernandes has been more than just a teammate; he has been a direct catalyst for many of Sesko’s own successes.
Out of Sesko’s nine league goals in his debut English season, four have been set up by Fernandes. The young striker expressed his gratitude for the chance to learn from such an experienced leader, saying, "I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno. Every single training, after training, sometimes before training – whatever he tells you, just do it, don’t think twice. I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to be around him." When pressed on whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko answered without hesitation: "He’s great.
He’s my teammate, and of course he always stands up for his teammates. Yeah, he should win it." His comments reflect not only admiration but also an understanding of the broader influence Fernandes exerts on the dressing‑room and on the pitch. United are currently edging closer to a Champions League return, with six points likely enough to secure a top‑five finish.
The club’s resurgence has boosted Sesko’s confidence, and he now feels the side possesses the quality to challenge for major trophies. "I think we did great. There are still games left, but we have a fantastic spirit in the team. I’m learning a lot from the experience.
We have great players and a great coaching staff," he said. "I would love to win some trophies here.
I believe we have the capacity to do that, even if it takes a lot of work." Interim manager Michael Carrick also spoke about the environment that enables Fernandes to thrive. Ahead of a Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford, Carrick explained that the club has deliberately built a structure that gives Bruno the freedom to operate in attacking positions.
"We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform like all the players," Carrick said. "We’re trying to create a system that brings out the best in everyone. There are limitations – everyone has to sacrifice a little for the good of the team – but I love seeing Bruno in those advanced roles with a bit of liberty." Carrick praised Fernandes’s work rate, noting his contributions both with and without the ball.
"He does a lot of defensive work and makes intelligent runs without the ball. He has a huge responsibility, but we trust him. He’s a very good player, he sees things, he’s creative, he has a great brain, and he’s a big part of the group as well," the interim boss added. "It’s all about trust and putting him in positions where he can make the biggest difference." Sesko’s admiration for Fernandes extends beyond the technical aspects of the game.
He sees the Portuguese midfielder as a mentor who embodies professionalism and leadership. "Every time Bruno gives me advice, I try to implement it straight away. His attitude in training, his focus, and his willingness to help younger players set a standard we all want to follow," Sesko explained.
This mentorship has accelerated Sesko’s adaptation to English football, allowing him to transition from the Slovenian league to the high‑intensity environment of the Premier League with relative ease. The young forward’s comments also reflect a broader sentiment within the squad: United’s recent form has sparked belief that the club can compete for silverware again. The team’s defensive solidity, combined with the creative spark provided by Fernandes, has produced a balanced side capable of challenging for both domestic and European honors.
"We have a great spirit, a strong work ethic, and the talent to go far. If we keep this momentum, I think we can win trophies that will be remembered for years," Sesko concluded. Overall, Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes underscores the midfielder’s pivotal role at Manchester United. From delivering record‑approaching assists to acting as a mentor for emerging talents, Fernandes’s influence permeates every facet of the club’s recent resurgence.
As the season draws toward its climax, both the young striker’s confidence and the team’s collective ambition suggest that United may yet achieve a return to the Champions League and add more silverware to their storied history.