Manchester United’s rising forward Benjamin Sesko has openly voiced his support for teammate Bruno Fernandes in the race for the Premier League Player of the Year accolade, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese captain has on the squad. Fernandes, who has been a central figure in United’s resurgence this season, is widely tipped to collect the award after delivering a campaign that has dazzled fans and pundits alike. The 31‑year‑old midfielder has already recorded 18 assists in the league, a tally that places him just two contributions shy of the all‑time single‑season record in the top flight since the 1992 inception of the Premier League. Sesko’s own debut season in England has been marked by a strong partnership with the veteran playmaker.
Out of the nine Premier League goals the Slovenian striker has netted so far, four have been directly set up by Fernandes, underscoring the synergy between the two. Reflecting on this relationship, Sesko told Sky Sports that he feels privileged to learn from his captain’s experience and leadership.
"I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko said. "Every single training, after training, sometimes before training – whatever he tells you, just do it, don’t think twice.
And that’s what I said. I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to be around him." When pressed on whether he believes Fernandes deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko was unequivocal.
"He’s great. He’s my teammate. And of course, always stand up for my teammates, yeah, he should win it," he affirmed, emphasizing both his respect for the captain’s on‑field brilliance and his off‑field character.
United are currently edging closer to a Champions League qualification spot, with six points seemingly enough to secure a top‑five finish. The club’s recent form has injected a fresh wave of confidence throughout the squad, and Sesko is convinced that the team possesses the quality to challenge for major trophies.
"I think we did great. Still, some games left, but I think we’re doing great.
We have a great spirit in the team. I’m learning a lot from the experience.
We are here, great players, great coaching staff," Sesko explained. "I would really like to achieve some trophies here.
I think there’s something we just can’t forget in life, and of course, we need to work a lot for it, but I believe we have the capacity to do that." The interim manager, Michael Carrick, also weighed in on the factors behind Fernandes’ impressive form ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. Carrick noted that the club has provided Bruno with the platform and freedom to express his creativity, which has translated into three goals and nine assists since his return to the coaching staff. "I think we’ve given Bruno the platform to go and perform like all the players," Carrick said during his pre‑match press conference. "We’re trying to create a structure and a team set‑up that brings out the best in everyone.
There are obviously limitations – everyone has to sacrifice a little for the good of the team – but I like seeing Bruno in attacking positions with a bit of freedom." Carrick praised Fernandes’ work ethic, both with and without the ball, and highlighted his importance to the group’s dynamics. "He obviously plays for the team and has a huge responsibility within that.
He did that exceptionally well, especially on Saturday, with his defensive work and movement without the ball. 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 – a big influence. A lot of it is trust, putting him in a position where he can make the biggest difference based on his qualities." Sesko’s admiration for Fernandes extends beyond statistics; it reflects a deeper appreciation for the captain’s leadership style.
The young striker has spoken about the daily guidance he receives, noting that the mentorship is not limited to match days but permeates every training session, pre‑match routine, and even post‑match analysis. "Bruno’s advice is practical and straightforward. He tells you what to do, and you just execute it. There’s no over‑thinking.
That clarity has helped me settle into English football quickly," Sesko added. "Having a leader who communicates so clearly makes a huge difference, especially when you’re adapting to a new league and culture." The synergy between Sesko and Fernandes exemplifies United’s broader strategy of blending youthful energy with seasoned expertise.
As the season progresses, the partnership is expected to deepen, with Fernandes continuing to orchestrate attacks and Sesko providing the clinical finishing that the club desperately needs. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, eager to see whether United’s collective ambition will translate into silverware.
With the team’s morale high and the tactical framework solidifying under Carrick’s interim stewardship, the prospect of a trophy haul – be it the FA Cup, League Cup, or a coveted Champions League spot – feels increasingly realistic. In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes underscores the captain’s pivotal role in Manchester United’s revival.
From delivering record‑approaching assist numbers to mentoring emerging talents, Fernandes embodies the blend of skill, intelligence, and leadership that defines a true Player of the Year contender. As United push toward the season’s climax, the partnership between the Slovenian striker and the Portuguese maestro may well become one of the defining narratives of this Premier League campaign.