Manchester United’s rising striker Benjamin Sesko has openly championed teammate Bruno Fernandes as a leading candidate for the Premier League Player of the Year accolade, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese midfielder has on the squad. Sesko’s endorsement comes after Fernandes has enjoyed a spectacular season for the Red Devils, tallying 18 assists in the league – a figure that sits just two shy of the all‑time single‑season record set since the competition’s modern era began in 1992. In his debut campaign in English football, Sesko has found the back of the net nine times in the Premier League, and four of those goals were directly set up by Fernandes.
The young forward expressed his gratitude for the chance to learn from his captain, noting that he receives constant guidance both on and off the training pitch. "I’m getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko told Sky Sports.
"Every single training session, after training, sometimes even before training – whatever he tells you, just do it, don’t think twice. I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to be around him." When pressed about whether he believes Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season award, Sesko was unequivocal: "He’s great. He’s my teammate, and he always stands up for us.
He should definitely win it." The endorsement underscores the respect the striker has for the midfielder’s leadership, vision, and work ethic. United are currently inching closer to a coveted return to the Champions League, with six points appearing sufficient to secure a top‑five finish. The club’s resurgence has infused the squad with confidence, and Sesko believes the team possesses the quality to compete for major trophies. "We’ve done well so far, but there are still games left.
The spirit in the group is fantastic, and I’m learning a lot from this experience. We have great players, excellent coaching staff, and a real desire to win silverware. I think we have the capacity to achieve something unforgettable," he said. Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the factors behind Fernandes’ form ahead of United’s Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford.
Carrick explained that the club has deliberately built a structure that allows creative players like Fernandes to thrive. "We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform, like all our players. We’re trying to create a system that brings out the best in everyone. There are 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 said during a press conference.
Carrick praised Fernandes’ defensive contributions as well as his attacking flair, noting his three goals and nine assists since returning to the club. "He plays for the team and carries a huge responsibility. He does that brilliantly, especially when he’s off the ball and doing defensive work.
He’s a very good player, creative, with a great brain, and a big influence on the group," Carrick added. "It’s about trusting him, putting him in positions where he can make the biggest difference with the qualities he possesses." Sesko’s admiration for Fernandes extends beyond on‑field tactics.
He sees the captain as a mentor who helps younger players adapt to the rigors of Premier League football. The Slovak international has spoken about the value of observing Fernandes’ preparation routines, his composure under pressure, and his ability to read the game. "Every time I watch Bruno, I pick up something new – whether it’s his positioning, his decision‑making, or how he communicates with the team.
It’s a learning curve for me, and I’m thankful for that," Sesko explained. The striker’s comments also reflect a broader narrative within United’s camp: a collective belief that the club is on an upward trajectory after a period of instability. The combination of experienced leaders like Fernandes and fresh talent such as Sesko creates a dynamic environment where ambition and development go hand in hand. Fans have responded positively, noting that the synergy between the midfield maestro and the eager newcomer adds a new dimension to United’s attacking play.
As the season progresses, the race for individual honors will intensify, but Sesko remains focused on team success. He reiterated that while personal accolades are flattering, the ultimate goal is to bring trophies back to Manchester.
"I’d love to win some silverware here. It’s something you can’t forget for the rest of your life.
We have to work hard for it, but I truly believe we have the capacity to do that," he said. In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s vocal support for Bruno Fernandes highlights the midfielder’s pivotal role at Manchester United, both as a creator of chances and as a leader who shapes the team’s culture. Their partnership exemplifies how mentorship and mutual respect can elevate a squad’s performance, driving United toward a hopeful return to Europe’s elite competition and, perhaps, a season filled with memorable triumphs.