Manchester United’s young forward Benjamin Sesko has openly championed his teammate Bruno Fernandes as the frontrunner for the Premier League Player of the Year accolade, while also highlighting the profound impact the Portuguese play‑maker has on the squad. Sesko’s endorsement comes after a season in which Fernandes has consistently demonstrated why he is considered one of the league’s elite midfielders.
Fernandes entered the campaign already earmarked as a favorite for the individual award, and his statistics have only reinforced that status. The 31‑year‑old has supplied 18 assists in Premier League fixtures so far, a tally that sits just two short of the all‑time single‑season record for assists in the top flight since the competition was rebranded in 1992.
Those numbers illustrate not only his creative vision but also his ability to dictate the tempo of games and unlock stubborn defences. For Sesko, the influence of Fernandes is both tangible and personal.
The Slovenian striker, who is completing his first full season in English football, has already netted nine league goals, four of which were directly set up by his captain. In an interview with Sky Sports, Sesko expressed his gratitude for the mentorship and guidance he receives from the experienced midfielder. "I’m also getting a lot of instructions from Bruno," Sesko explained.
"Every single training, after training, sometimes before training – whatever he tells you, just do it, don’t think twice. And 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 prize, Sesko was unequivocal: "He’s great. He’s my teammate.
And of course, always stand up for my teammates, yeah, he should win it." United’s resurgence this term has brought them within touching distance of a Champions League place. With six points generally enough to secure a top‑five finish, the Red Devils are mounting a serious challenge for European qualification, and the optimism in the camp is palpable. Sesko’s own confidence has surged alongside the team’s fortunes. He reflected on the collective spirit and the club’s ambition to claim major silverware.
"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. I would really like to achieve some trophies here.
I think there’s something about this club that you can’t forget for the rest of your life. Of course, we need to work hard for it, but I believe we have the capacity to do that." 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 praised the club’s approach to giving Bruno the freedom to operate in advanced positions, noting that the system is designed to maximise each player’s strengths. "I think we’ve given Bruno the platform to go and perform like all the players," Carrick said in a press conference.
"We’re trying to create a 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. He obviously plays for the team and carries a huge responsibility.
He did that brilliantly on Saturday, both without the ball and in his defensive work. He’s creative, he has a great brain, and he’s a big part of the group as well. It’s all about trust and putting him where he can make the biggest difference." The synergy between Sesko and Fernandes exemplifies the broader narrative of United’s revival.
The young striker’s willingness to absorb lessons from the veteran, combined with Fernandes’ willingness to lead by example, has fostered an environment where both individual brilliance and collective effort thrive. As the season progresses, the partnership could prove decisive in United’s push for a top‑five finish and a possible return to the Champions League.
Beyond the immediate statistics, the intangible qualities that Fernandes brings – his leadership, his work ethic, and his ability to inspire teammates – are equally important. Sesko’s remarks underscore how the captain’s influence extends beyond the pitch, shaping training routines, tactical understanding, and the overall mentality of the squad. If United can maintain this momentum, the combination of a prolific midfield orchestrator and a hungry, developing striker could see them not only secure European football but also mount a serious challenge for domestic trophies. The club’s fans, already buoyed by recent performances, will be eager to see whether the confidence expressed by Sesko and the tactical backing from Carrick translate into tangible success as the campaign reaches its climax.
In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes as the Premier League Player of the Year reflects both statistical merit and personal admiration. Their collaborative dynamic, bolstered by a supportive coaching staff and a clear strategic vision, positions Manchester United as a formidable contender for both individual accolades and team honours as the season draws to a close.