Manchester United’s emerging striker Benjamin Šeško has openly championed his teammate Bruno Fernandes as the likely winner of the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese captain has on the squad. Šeško’s endorsement comes after a season in which Fernandes has been a central figure in United’s attacking resurgence, registering an impressive tally of 18 assists in the league – a figure that sits just two shy of the all‑time single‑season record that has stood since the 1992‑93 campaign. The Slovenian forward, who is enjoying his first full season in English football, has already found the back of the net nine times in the Premier League.
Remarkably, four of those goals were set up by Fernandes, underscoring the direct link between the captain’s creativity and Šeško’s finishing. When asked about the mentorship he receives, Šeško told Sky Sports, “I’m constantly receiving instructions from Bruno – before training, after training, sometimes even during the session.
Whatever he says, I just follow it without overthinking. I’m truly grateful for the chance to learn from him every day.” Šeško’s admiration for Fernandes extends beyond tactical guidance. When pressed about whether the Portuguese midfielder truly deserves the Player of the Season prize, the young striker replied unequivocally, “He’s fantastic. He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for us.
He definitely should win it.” This sentiment reflects the broader respect that many United players have for Fernandes, whose leadership on and off the pitch has become a cornerstone of the club’s recent progress. United’s campaign this season has been marked by a steady climb up the table, with the team now within striking distance of a Champions League berth. Analysts suggest that as few as six additional points could secure a top‑five finish, a realistic target given the side’s improved defensive solidity and attacking fluidity. Šeško believes that the momentum the team has built will translate into tangible success, stating, “We’ve been playing great football, and the spirit in the dressing room is fantastic.
I’m learning a lot from this experience, surrounded by world‑class players and a top‑level coaching staff. I want to win trophies here, and I truly think we have the capacity to do so.” The interim manager, Michael Carrick, has also spoken about the environment that has allowed Fernandes to flourish. Ahead of United’s Monday Night Football fixture at Old Trafford, Carrick explained, “We’ve given Bruno the platform to express himself. Our structure is designed to bring out the best in every player, and while there are always compromises for the good of the team, I enjoy seeing Bruno in advanced positions with a degree of freedom.” He praised Fernandes not only for his attacking contributions – three goals and nine assists since Carrick’s return – but also for his defensive work rate, noting, “He does a lot without the ball, contributing defensively and showing immense responsibility.” Carrick continued, “Bruno is a creative mind, a very intelligent player who sees the game differently.
He’s a key figure in the group and has a huge influence on the squad’s mentality. Trusting him in the right moments allows us to maximize his qualities, and that trust is a big part of why he’s been so effective.” Šeško’s own journey at United has been a story of rapid adaptation and confidence building.
Arriving from Red Bull Salzburg, the 21‑year‑old forward quickly adjusted to the physicality and pace of English football, crediting the mentorship of senior players like Fernandes for smoothing his transition. He added, “Playing alongside someone of Bruno’s caliber pushes me to improve every day.
His vision and passing open up spaces that I can exploit, and his work ethic sets a standard for the whole team.” Beyond the immediate season, Šeško envisions a future where United reestablishes itself among Europe’s elite. He remarked, “We have the talent, the coaching, and the determination. If we keep this level of performance and maintain the belief we have now, there’s no reason we can’t compete for major trophies and return to the Champions League consistently.” The broader fan base has taken note of the growing camaraderie between the young striker and his captain.
Social media reactions highlight the enthusiasm for a United side that appears united in purpose, with many supporters echoing Šeško’s sentiment that Fernandes’ leadership is pivotal to the club’s resurgence. In summary, Benjamin Šeško’s public backing of Bruno Fernandes underscores the Portuguese midfielder’s dual role as a creative engine and a guiding figure within Manchester United. Their partnership, characterized by on‑field synergy and off‑field mentorship, exemplifies the type of collaborative spirit that could propel United back into the upper echelons of English and European football. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Fernandes can convert the widespread admiration into the coveted Player of the Year accolade, while United strives to secure a Champions League spot and chase the silverware that has long eluded them.