Manchester United forward Benjamin Sesko has publicly voiced his support for teammate Bruno Fernandes in the race for the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese captain has had on his own development. Fernandes, who is already listed among the favourites after a stellar season, boasts an impressive tally of 18 assists in the league – a figure that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record set in the top flight since 1992. Sesko, who is enjoying his first campaign in English football, has directly benefited from Fernandes' vision; four of the nine league goals he has scored so far were set up by the midfield maestro. In a candid interview with Sky Sports, the young striker explained how much he has learned from the experienced playmaker.
"I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko said. "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." His words underscore the mentorship role Fernandes has assumed, offering guidance not only on the pitch but also in the daily routines that shape a professional athlete’s mindset. When pressed about whether Fernandes truly deserves the Player of the Season accolade, Sesko did not hesitate.
"He’s great. He’s my teammate, and of course he always stands up for his fellow players. Yes, he should win it," the striker affirmed, reinforcing the belief that the midfielder’s contributions go beyond statistics and extend into leadership and morale‑boosting qualities that lift the entire squad. United are currently in a strong position to secure a return to the UEFA Champions League, with six points likely sufficient to clinch a top‑five finish.
This push for European qualification has infused the team with confidence, and Sesko believes the side possesses the depth and character to challenge for major trophies. "I think we did great. There are still games left, but we have a wonderful spirit in the team.
I’m learning a lot from the experience. We have great players, great coaching staff, and I really want to win some silverware here," he explained. "I feel we have the capacity to achieve something memorable, even though it will require a lot of hard work." Interim manager Michael Carrick also weighed in on the factors behind Fernandes' form ahead of United's Monday Night Football fixture at Old Trafford. Carrick noted that the club has deliberately built a structure that maximises the creative freedom of its key players.
"We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform like all the other players," he said. "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 praised Fernandes not only for his attacking output – three goals and nine assists since the interim coach’s arrival – but also for his defensive work rate and leadership off the ball. "He plays for the team and carries a huge responsibility.
He did that brilliantly on Saturday, both without the ball and in his defensive duties," Carrick added. "He has a great brain, creativity, and is a big influence on the group. Trusting him in the right positions allows him to make the biggest difference." Sesko’s admiration for his captain reflects a broader sentiment within the dressing room.
The young Slovenian striker, who arrived from Red Bull Salzburg and has quickly adapted to the physical and tactical demands of the Premier League, sees Fernandes as a blueprint for success. "Being around Bruno has taught me how to read the game, how to position myself, and how to stay calm under pressure," Sesko remarked.
"His work ethic pushes everyone to improve, and his calmness in big moments is something I try to emulate." Beyond the immediate season, Sesko believes that the culture being cultivated at United – one that blends youthful exuberance with seasoned expertise – could herald a new era of sustained success. He pointed out that the combination of a dynamic attacking line, a disciplined midfield, and a resilient defensive unit creates a balanced team capable of competing on multiple fronts. "We have a great spirit, and the coaching staff is doing an excellent job of integrating new players while preserving the club’s identity," he said. "If we keep this momentum, there’s no reason we can’t fight for trophies and maybe even challenge for the league title in the future." Fans and analysts alike have taken note of the symbiotic relationship between Sesko and Fernandes.
While the striker continues to develop his own goal‑scoring instincts, he repeatedly credits the midfield maestro for the assists that have opened doors for him. This mutual respect illustrates how individual brilliance can be amplified when players understand and support each other's roles.
In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes as a leading contender for the Premier League Player of the Year highlights both the Portuguese star’s statistical achievements and his intangible influence on teammates. United’s ongoing push for a Champions League spot, coupled with a clear ambition to secure silverware, is underpinned by a blend of tactical flexibility, leadership, and a shared belief in the squad’s potential.
As the season progresses, the partnership between a rising striker and an established captain may prove pivotal in shaping the club’s fortunes both domestically and in Europe.