Benjamin Sesko, the recent acquisition and striker for Manchester United, has publicly expressed his belief that captain Bruno Fernandes deserves the Premier League Player of the Year award. In a candid interview with Sky Sports, the Slovenian forward highlighted Fernandes' pivotal role both on the pitch and in the dressing‑room, praising the Portuguese playmaker’s leadership and the impact of his assists on the team's attacking output. Fernandes is widely regarded as a frontrunner for the accolade after an exceptional season that has seen him deliver 18 assists in the league – a tally that places him just two contributions shy of the all‑time single‑season record set since the Premier League’s inception in 1992. His creative spark has been a cornerstone of United’s resurgence, and his influence extends far beyond the numbers, providing a constant source of inspiration for his teammates.
During his maiden campaign in English football, Sesko found the net nine times in the Premier League, with four of those goals directly set up by Fernandes. The striker made it clear that he feels fortunate to be learning alongside a captain of such calibre. "I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko told the broadcaster. "Every single training session, after training, sometimes even before training – whatever he tells you, you just do it, don’t think twice.
I’m really grateful to have this opportunity to be around him." When pressed about whether Fernandes should indeed clinch the Player of the Season award, Sesko did not hesitate. "He’s great. He’s my teammate, and of course, he always stands up for his teammates.
Yeah, he should win it," the striker affirmed, underscoring the respect he holds for the captain’s work ethic and determination. United are currently edging closer to a Champions League qualification spot, with six points generally enough to guarantee a place in the top five of the league table. The club’s recent form has infused the squad with confidence, and Sesko believes that the collective spirit in the dressing‑room could translate into major trophy success later in the season.
"I think we’ve done great. There are still a few games left, but the momentum is there. The team has a fantastic spirit, and I’m learning a lot from the experience," he said.
"We have great players, a superb coaching staff, and I’d love to win some trophies here. I’m convinced we have the capacity to achieve something unforgettable if we keep working hard." The interim manager, Michael Carrick, also weighed in on the factors that have allowed Fernandes to thrive. Speaking ahead of a Monday Night Football fixture at Old Trafford, Carrick explained that the club has provided a platform that enables the Portuguese star to express his creativity without excessive constraints. "We’ve given Bruno the platform to perform like all the other players," Carrick said.
"We’re trying to build a structure that brings out the best in everyone. There are limitations, of course – everyone has to make a little sacrifice for the good of the team – but I love seeing Bruno in attacking positions with a degree of freedom." Carrick praised Fernandes’ all‑round contributions, noting that his work goes far beyond the attacking third. "He also does a lot of defensive work without the ball, especially on Saturdays.
He has a huge responsibility, and we trust him implicitly. He’s a very intelligent player, very creative, and a key part of the group both on and off the field," the interim boss added. Beyond the statistics, the relationship between Sesko and Fernandes exemplifies the mentorship that can develop when a seasoned international joins forces with a promising youngster.
Sesko’s appreciation of Fernandes’ guidance reflects a broader theme in football: the importance of experienced leaders who can accelerate the development of emerging talents. By absorbing tactical advice, positional awareness, and the mental approach required at the highest level, the young striker is positioning himself to become a consistent goal‑scoring threat for United in the years ahead. The synergy between the two also benefits the broader squad. When a captain like Fernandes openly shares insights during training sessions, it fosters a culture of collective learning.
Younger players can observe how a world‑class midfielder prepares for matches, adapts to different phases of play, and maintains high standards of professionalism. This trickle‑down effect can raise the overall quality of the team, potentially narrowing the gap between United and the league’s traditional powerhouses. Looking ahead, United’s fans have reason to be optimistic.
The combination of a dynamic attacking trio, a disciplined midfield orchestrated by Fernandes, and a coaching staff that values both structure and creative freedom could see the club challenge for silverware this season. If the team can maintain its current trajectory, a top‑five finish and a return to the Champions League appear within reach, while an extended run in domestic cup competitions could provide the platform for the trophies that Sesko so eagerly desires. In summary, Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes underscores the Portuguese playmaker’s pivotal role in Manchester United’s resurgence.
From delivering a near‑record number of assists to mentoring a rising striker, Fernandes embodies the qualities that define a Player of the Year candidate. As the season progresses, United’s ambitions will hinge on sustaining the confidence and spirit that have been nurtured under his leadership, with the ultimate goal of securing a place among Europe’s elite and adding new chapters to the club’s storied history.