Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has capped off a remarkable season by winning the prestigious Football Writers' Association Player of the Year award—a fitting reward for a player who has been the driving force behind the club's resurgence.

It's hard to believe that just 12 months ago, Fernandes was heavily linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia. But the Portuguese playmaker chose to stay at Old Trafford, and that decision has paid off spectacularly. This season, he has been nothing short of sensational, racking up 19 assists and scoring eight goals in the Premier League. What makes those numbers even more impressive is the context: Fernandes spent the first half of the campaign playing as a deep-lying midfielder before shifting back to his preferred number 10 role following Ruben Amorim's departure in January.

The FWA award, decided by 900 sports writers, saw Fernandes edge out Arsenal's Declan Rice in a tight race. According to the association, the Portuguese international secured 45% of the vote, finishing 28 votes ahead of Rice, with Manchester City's Erling Haaland in third place. Fernandes was the only United player nominated for the honor, which last went to a Red Devil back in 2010 when Wayne Rooney claimed the prize.

"Bruno is on course to break records and has thrilled us with his skill," said FWA chair John Cross. United's official social media channels joined the celebration, posting: "Goalscorer. Assist provider. Award winner. Presenting the Footballer of the Year for 2025/26: Bruno Fernandes."

Now, Fernandes has his sights set on another milestone: reaching 20 assists for the season, which would put him level with Premier League legends Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. He gets his chance when United face Sunderland later today.