Manchester United’s young forward Benjamin Sesko has publicly thrown his full support behind team‑mate Bruno Fernandes in the race for the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese midfielder has had on his own development at Old Trafford. Fernandes, who is already listed among the early favourites for the accolade after an extraordinary season, has amassed 18 assists in the league so far – a tally that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record set since the competition was rebranded in 1992. The 31‑year‑old’s creative output has been a cornerstone of United’s resurgence, and Sesko’s comments underline how much the club’s new generation values his leadership. In Sesko’s debut Premier League campaign, he has found the net nine times, and four of those goals were directly set up by Fernandes.
The Slovak striker said he feels privileged to train and play alongside such an experienced captain. "I’m constantly receiving guidance from Bruno," Sesko told Sky Sports. "Whether it’s during a training session, after it, or even before we start, I take his advice straight away without overthinking it.
I’m genuinely grateful for the chance to learn from him every day." When pressed about whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season prize, Sesko was unequivocal: "He’s brilliant. He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for the rest of us.
He definitely should win it." United are currently edging closer to a Champions League spot, with six points likely enough to secure a top‑five finish. The club’s recent form has given Sesko a surge of confidence, and he is convinced that the squad possesses the quality to compete for major trophies.
"We’ve performed exceptionally well, and although there are still matches left, the spirit within the group is fantastic," he said. "I’m learning a great deal from the experience, surrounded by world‑class players and a top‑level coaching staff. My ambition is to win silverware with United – something that will stay with me for life. I know it will require hard work, but I truly believe we have the capacity to achieve it." Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on Fernandes’ influence ahead of United’s Monday Night Football fixture at Old Trafford.
Carrick explained that the club has deliberately built a system that allows the midfielder to thrive. "We’ve given Bruno the platform to express himself, just as we do with every player," Carrick said at a press conference.
"Our aim is to create a structure that brings out the best in everyone. It does mean each individual may have to make small sacrifices for the collective good, but I love seeing Bruno operating in advanced positions with a degree of freedom." Carrick praised Fernandes not only for his attacking contributions – three goals and nine assists since his return – but also for his defensive work and overall intelligence on the pitch. "He plays for the team first and shoulders a huge responsibility," Carrick continued.
"He performed brilliantly on Saturday, especially when he was off the ball and contributing defensively. His creativity, vision, and footballing brain make him a pivotal figure in the squad. Trust is a big part of it – we place him in positions where he can have the biggest impact, leveraging his numerous qualities." Sesko’s admiration for his captain goes beyond statistics. He highlighted how Fernandes’ attitude in training sessions – constantly offering tips, correcting positioning, and encouraging younger players – has accelerated his own adaptation to English football.
"When I first arrived, everything was new – the pace, the physicality, the atmosphere. Bruno helped me settle in by showing me how to read the game faster and how to make smarter runs," Sesko explained. "His leadership is not just about what he does on match day, but the daily habits he instills in the squad." The Slovak forward also noted that Fernandes’ humility and work ethic set a benchmark for the entire team.
"He never stops improving, even after achieving so much. That drives the rest of us to push harder," Sesko added. As United continue their push for a top‑five finish, the partnership between the experienced midfield maestro and the promising young striker could prove decisive.
Sesko’s confidence, bolstered by Fernandes’ mentorship, suggests a bright future for both players and the club. Beyond the immediate season, Sesko believes the foundation being laid now will help United challenge for trophies in the years to come. "We have a great spirit, a solid coaching staff, and players who are hungry for success. If we keep building on this momentum, there’s no reason we can’t lift major silverware soon." In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes reflects not only personal gratitude but also a broader acknowledgment of the midfielder’s pivotal role in Manchester United’s revival.
Their combined ambition and mutual respect may well be the catalyst that drives the team back into Europe’s elite competition and, ultimately, onto the trophy podium.