Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes, was named the Football Writers’ Association men’s player of the year, after a season in which his assists helped his side back into the UEFA Champions League.
The 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder beat runner-up Declan Rice of Arsenal by 28 votes, with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland third. Fernandes is the first Manchester United player to win the award since Wayne Rooney in 2010.
“Congratulations to Bruna Fernandes for Being voted the Footballer of the year,” the FWA announced on social media, X. “The Manchester United captain garnered 45 per cent of votes, 28 ahead of runner-up Declan Rice, while Erling Haaland was third.”
Fernandes has scored eight league goals and provided 19 assists, leaving him one short of the Premier League record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, with three matches remaining.
Manchester United, inspired by a rejuvenated Fernandes, and interim manager Michael Carrick, have flown up the Premier League standings to third spot and are already assured of a return to the Champions League next season after a two-year absence.
