Bruno Fernandes announced as Football Writers' Association's men's Footballer of the Year

More recognition for Man United's captain

Bruno Fernandes has been named the Football Writers' Association men's Footballer of the Year after a season in which he has driven Manchester United back into contention near the top of the Premier League.

Author | Olivia T

The midfielder has scored eight goals and registered 20 assists in 34 appearances in all competitions for United this season, emerging as the central figure in the club's revival under interim manager Michael Carrick.

Fernandes received 45% of the vote from the FWA's more than 900 members, finishing ahead of Declan Rice in second place, with Erling Haaland third.

Although United are set to end the campaign without silverware for a second successive year, they remain on course for a third-place finish and qualification for next season's Champions League.

Fernandes becomes the first United player to win the award since Wayne Rooney claimed the honour in 2010.

The past, present and future of Bruno

The 31-year-old joined Manchester United from Sporting CP in January 2020 in a deal worth £67.7m and brought up his 300th appearance for the club earlier this season.

Fernandes' outstanding 2025-26 campaign has followed a period in which his future at Old Trafford appeared far from certain.

At the end of last season, United officials informed Bruno Fernandes they would not prevent him from leaving should he wish to accept a lucrative proposal from Al-Hilal.

Fernandes turned down that approach and has since resisted interest from several European clubs in order to remain at United.

It is understood his current contract, which runs until 2027, also includes the option of a further year.