Manchester United’s rising forward Benjamin Sesko has openly championed his teammate Bruno Fernandes as a leading contender for the Premier League Player of the Year trophy, praising the Portuguese play‑maker’s impact both on and off the pitch. Fernandes has emerged as one of the clear favourites for the accolade after delivering a remarkable season for the Red Devils. The 31‑year‑old midfielder has already supplied 18 assists in the league, a tally that sits just two assists shy of the all‑time single‑season record in the top flight since the 1992‑93 campaign. Such a contribution underscores his pivotal role in United’s attacking framework and highlights why many pundits and fans alike view him as a strong candidate for the year‑end award.
Sesko’s own statistics further illustrate Fernandes’s influence. In his debut Premier League season, the Slovak striker has netted nine league goals, and four of those strikes were set up directly by Fernandes. The young forward expressed his gratitude for the chance to learn from the experienced captain, noting that the mentorship has been a key factor in his rapid adaptation to English football. "I’m receiving a lot of guidance from Bruno," Sesko told Sky Sports.
"Whether it’s during training, after a session, or even before we start, I take his advice straight away and never overthink it. I’m truly thankful for the opportunity to be around him and soak up his knowledge." When pressed about whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko didn’t hesitate.
"He’s fantastic. He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for all of us. I think he should definitely win it," he affirmed.
United are inching closer to a Champions League return, with six points seemingly enough to secure a top‑five finish. The club’s resurgence has injected confidence throughout the squad, and Sesko is convinced that the team possesses the quality to challenge for major silverware.
"We’ve performed well so far, and there’s still football left to play, but the spirit in the dressing room is excellent," he said. "I’m learning a great deal from this experience. We have talented players and a top‑class coaching staff, and I’m eager to win trophies here.
I believe we have the capacity to achieve something unforgettable, even though it will require hard work and dedication." Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the secret behind Fernandes’s form ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. He highlighted the club’s efforts to provide the midfielder with a platform that maximises his creative abilities. "We’ve given Bruno the freedom to operate in attacking positions and the structure to thrive," Carrick explained during his press conference. "Every player must make small sacrifices for the collective good, and we aim to create a system that brings out the best in everyone.
Bruno’s vision, creativity, and footballing intellect are vital to that plan." Carrick praised Fernandes’s defensive contributions as well, noting his work off the ball on Saturdays. "He’s taken on a huge responsibility, both offensively and defensively, and he’s executed it brilliantly," the interim boss added. "Trusting him in key moments and allowing him the space to influence the game is essential, given his exceptional understanding of the sport." Beyond the immediate accolades, Sesko’s endorsement reflects a broader narrative of mentorship within United’s squad. The young striker’s comments underscore how seasoned players like Fernandes can accelerate the development of emerging talent, fostering a culture of learning and mutual support.
As the season progresses, United’s pursuit of a top‑five finish and a return to European competition remains a central goal. The combination of Fernandes’s play‑making brilliance, Carrick’s tactical adjustments, and the enthusiasm of newcomers like Sesko creates a compelling storyline for the club’s supporters. If the Red Devils maintain their current trajectory, the Premier League Player of the Year award could very well add another United name to its roll, with Bruno Fernandes poised to claim the honor amid a season that has already cemented his status as one of the league’s most influential figures.