Full Breakdown
Bruno Fernandes Wins FWA Footballer of the Year Amid Assist Record Chase
5/9/2026, 11:29:09 AM
Award Triumph and Season Highlights
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was named the Football Writers' Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year, winning 45 % of the vote. He is the first United player to claim the honour since Wayne Rooney in 2009/10. In the 2025/26 campaign Fernandes recorded eight goals and 19 Premier League assists, helping United secure a Champions League place.
Statistical Milestones and Record Pursuit
Fernandes' 19 assists leave him one shy of the joint Premier League record of 20, held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Opta data credit him with 120 created chances—nearly double the next-best player. He also leads the league in chipped passes and attempts 50 % more through-balls than any peer this season.
Context: Role at Manchester United
Since joining United from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, Fernandes has captained the side and lifted two domestic cups under Erik ten Hag. This season he returned to his natural number 10 role after a brief deeper-midfield stint under interim manager Michael Carrick. His influence was pivotal in United’s return to the Champions League after a three-year absence.
Official Reactions
FWA chair John Cross said the award recognised Fernandes’ influence on United’s resurgence. Manchester United assistant manager Michael Carrick praised his creativity and leadership, calling him a “shining light” during a difficult period for the club. Former England defender Danny Simpson, commenting on social media, predicted Fernandes could also capture the PFA Player of the Year award.
Criticism and Alternative Views
Several journalists and former players argued that Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice deserved the FWA honour. Charles Watts noted Rice “won more games” and drove Arsenal’s title challenge. Henry Winter emphasized that awards should reflect “glory” and trophy hunting, suggesting Rice’s contributions were more decisive. A few former United players have also questioned Fernandes’ leadership, labeling him a victim of the club’s broader malaise.
Conflicting Figures on Assist Totals
Most reports list Fernandes with 19 Premier League assists, leaving him one short of the record. Football365, however, reported 20 assists across all competitions, creating a discrepancy between league-only and total-season counts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don't see it that one player is better than another because he wins more trophies. Not every time the best player in the world is the one that wins the Ballon d'Or.” — Bruno Fernandes, Portugal captain
- “Watts has written on X at 6:36pm on May 8: “Bruno Fernandes is a wonderful player and has had an excellent season – in the Premier League.” — Charles Watts, journalist
- “it’s about hunting down trophies.” — Henry Winter, former England defender
Looking Ahead
United have three league fixtures remaining, giving Fernandes a final chance to reach 20 assists and tie the Premier League record. United’s Champions League qualification is now secured, while Fernandes remains a key figure for Portugal’s World Cup squad. The PFA Player of the Year award is also pending, with many pundits expecting his name among the frontrunners.
