Manchester United forward Benjamin Sesko has openly championed his teammate Bruno Fernandes as a leading candidate for the Premier League Player of the Year award, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese captain has on the squad. Fernandes, who has already established himself as one of the frontrunners for the honor after a spectacular season, boasts an impressive tally of 18 assists in the league so far – a figure that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record in the top flight since its modern era began in 1992.
During Sesko's inaugural campaign in English football, four of his nine league goals have come directly from Fernandes' pinpoint passes, underscoring the synergy between the young striker and the seasoned playmaker. The Slovenian youngster expressed his gratitude for the chance to learn from the club's captain, noting that he receives constant guidance both on and off the training ground. "I'm also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko told Sky Sports.
"Every single training, after training, sometimes before training – whatever he tells you, just do it, don't think twice. That's what I said.
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 accolade, Sesko replied without hesitation: "He's great. He's my teammate. And of course, always stand up for my teammates – yeah, he should win it." The endorsement from a rising star adds weight to the growing chorus of voices supporting Fernandes' case, especially as United inch closer to a coveted Champions League spot.
At present, a six‑point cushion appears sufficient for the Red Devils to secure a top‑five finish and return to Europe’s elite competition. Beyond the individual award conversation, Sesko reflected on United's overall trajectory this season. He said the team's recent run has bolstered his confidence and convinced him that the squad possesses the quality to chase 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," he said.
"I would really like to achieve some trophies here. I think there would be something that we just can't forget for life at all.
And of course, we need to work a lot for it, but I believe we have the capacity to do that." United's interim manager, former player Michael Carrick, also weighed in on the factors behind Fernandes' flourishing form ahead of the club's Monday Night Football clash at Old Trafford. Carrick explained that the coaching staff have deliberately crafted a system that maximizes the Portuguese midfielder's strengths.
"I think we've given Bruno the platform to go and perform like all the players," Carrick said in his pre‑match press conference. "We are trying to create the 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 continued, emphasizing Fernandes' dual responsibilities: "He obviously plays for the team and has a huge responsibility within that.
He did that brilliantly on Saturday, both without the ball and in his defensive work. He's got big responsibility, but we trust him. He's a very good player, he sees things, he's creative, he has a really good brain, and he's a big part of the group as well – a huge influence. So a lot of it is trust and putting him in a position where he can make the biggest difference, given the various qualities he possesses." The mutual admiration between Sesko and Fernandes reflects a broader cultural shift at Old Trafford, where younger talents are encouraged to absorb the experience of established stars.
Sesko, who arrived from NK Olimpija Ljubljana and quickly adapted to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, attributes much of his rapid development to the daily lessons he receives from Fernandes. Whether it is positioning, decision‑making in the final third, or the mental resilience required to thrive under pressure, the Slovenian forward says he absorbs a wealth of knowledge simply by observing and listening. In addition to the on‑field mentorship, Sesko highlighted the importance of the team's collective ethos. "We have a great spirit in the team," he reiterated, noting that the camaraderie fostered by senior players like Fernandes creates an environment where newcomers can flourish.
This supportive atmosphere has helped United maintain a competitive edge despite the challenges of a tightly contested league. Looking ahead, both Sesko and Carrick are optimistic about United's chances of securing silverware. The manager believes that the tactical framework, combined with the individual brilliance of players such as Fernandes, provides a solid foundation for a successful cup run.
Meanwhile, Sesko remains eager to contribute his share of goals and assists, hoping that his partnership with the midfield maestro will continue to yield results. In summary, Benjamin Sesko's endorsement of Bruno Fernandes underscores the Portuguese midfielder's pivotal role in Manchester United's resurgence. From record‑challenging assist numbers to leadership both on and off the pitch, Fernandes embodies the qualities that many fans and pundits associate with a Player of the Year. As the season progresses, United's ambition to return to the Champions League and vie for trophies appears increasingly realistic, driven by a blend of seasoned experience and youthful exuberance.
The synergy between Sesko and Fernandes may well become one of the defining narratives of this campaign, illustrating how mentorship and mutual respect can elevate a team's performance to new heights.