Manchester United’s emerging striker Benjamin Sesko has publicly thrown his full support behind teammate Bruno Fernandes in the race for the Premier League Player of the Year award, praising the Portuguese midfielder’s impact both on and off the pitch. Fernandes, who is already counted among the frontrunners after a season that has seen him rack up 18 Premier League assists – just two shy of the all‑time single‑season record since the league’s modern era began in 1992 – received a glowing endorsement from the young forward, who has benefited directly from his captain’s vision. During his debut campaign in England, Sesko found the back of the net nine times in the league, and four of those goals were set up by Fernandes. The Slovakian striker expressed his gratitude for the mentorship and guidance he receives from the experienced playmaker, noting that the lessons come not only in matches but also during training sessions.
“I’m getting a lot of instructions from Bruno,” Sesko told Sky Sports. “Every single training, after training, sometimes before training – whatever he says, I just do it, I don’t overthink it. I’m really grateful to have the chance to be around him.” When pressed about whether he believes Fernandes deserves the Player of the Season accolade, Sesko was unequivocal: “He’s great.
He’s my teammate. And of course, he always stands up for his teammates. Yeah, he should win it.” His comments underline the respect the youngster has for the captain’s leadership and his belief that Fernandes’s contributions extend far beyond the statistics. United’s campaign this term has been marked by a steady climb up the table, with the Red Devils now within striking distance of a Champions League berth.
Six points appear to be the magic number needed to secure a top‑five finish, and the team’s recent form has injected a fresh wave of confidence throughout the squad. Sesko, who has thrived under the guidance of interim manager Michael Carrick, believes the side possesses the quality and mentality required to challenge for major trophies. “I think we’ve done great so far,” Sesko said.
“There are still a few games left, but the spirit in the dressing room is fantastic. I’m learning a lot from this experience – we have great players, excellent coaching staff, and a real hunger to win silverware. I want to achieve something memorable here. It won’t be easy, but I truly believe we have the capacity to do it.” Carrick, who took charge of United after the departure of Erik ten Hag, has spoken openly about the environment he is trying to create for his players.
In a pre‑match press conference ahead of the Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford, Carrick highlighted the platform the club has built for Fernandes to flourish. “We’ve given Bruno the space to perform, just like we do with all our players,” he explained.
“Our aim is to construct a structure that brings out the best in everyone. It does require some sacrifices, but I love seeing Bruno in advanced positions with a degree of freedom.” The interim boss praised Fernandes’s all‑round contributions, noting that the midfielder’s influence is evident even when he is not directly involved in a goal. “He does a lot of defensive work, and his off‑the‑ball movement is crucial,” Carrick added. “He has a huge responsibility, but we trust him completely.
He’s creative, he reads the game well, and he’s a key figure in the group. It’s about putting him in positions where his qualities can make the biggest impact.” Sesko’s admiration for Fernandes reflects a broader sentiment within the squad that the Portuguese star’s blend of vision, work ethic, and leadership is a catalyst for United’s resurgence.
The young forward’s own development has been accelerated by the mentorship, as he continues to adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League. By absorbing Fernandes’s advice on positioning, decision‑making, and mental preparation, Sesko hopes to refine his own game and become a more complete attacker.
Beyond the immediate season, both players share an ambition to restore United to its former glory. The club’s recent performances have sparked optimism among supporters, who see the combination of youthful exuberance and seasoned expertise as a promising formula. While the race for the Player of the Year award remains open, Sesko’s endorsement adds a personal, insider perspective to Fernandes’s candidacy, emphasizing that his impact resonates deeply with those who train alongside him. As the campaign progresses, United’s focus will be on maintaining consistency, securing vital points against direct rivals, and capitalising on the creative spark that Fernandes provides.
If the team can sustain its momentum, the prospect of returning to the Champions League and contending for domestic cups appears increasingly realistic. For Sesko, the journey is just beginning, but with a mentor like Bruno Fernandes guiding the way, the future looks bright for both the striker and the club.