Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes wins the 2026 Football Writers' Association men's Footballer of the Year award after standout performances.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been named the Football Writers' Association's men's Footballer of the Year. The Portugal international midfielder has contributed eight goals and 20 assists across 34 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions this season. Fernandes has been instrumental in the club's improved form under interim manager Michael Carrick. United are set to finish third in the Premier League and secure a Champions League spot for next season despite missing out on trophies for a second straight year.
Fernandes, who joined United from Sporting in January 2020 for a fee of £67.7 million, reached his 300th appearance for the club earlier this season. The 31-year-old's current contract runs until 2027 and includes an optional additional year. His strong 2025-26 campaign followed a period of uncertainty over his future at the club. Last season, United officials informed Fernandes they would not block a move if he opted to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal after a substantial offer.
Fernandes turned down the Saudi offer and later declined interest from other European clubs to remain at United. In October of the previous year, he stated he would not discuss his future until after the upcoming World Cup. His contract negotiations could resume soon, especially given his performances this season. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been focused on reducing wage expenses, but Fernandes' contributions may push for a new deal.
Bruno Fernandes' decisive contributions have been vital in Manchester United's push for Champions League qualification. In October, few believed the club could secure a top-four finish when he spoke about the possibility. By January, technical director Jason Wilcox set the target despite Ruben Amorim's departure, a goal initially seen as ambitious. With three matches remaining, United have already achieved the target and could finish the season closer in points to the champions than in any other campaign since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement 13 years ago.
Since returning from an injury against Burnley, Fernandes has delivered in 13 out of 16 matches across all competitions, either scoring or creating a goal each time. His performances have been consistently high and widely praised. Twelve months ago, as debates about his future intensified, questions arose about United's standing without him. The concern then was whether the club would face a relegation battle; now, his influence is credited with keeping them in contention for Europe's premier club competition.
Fernandes turned down a lucrative move to Al-Hilal and dismissed other European offers to stay with United. His commitment has been repaid with strong performances throughout the 2025-26 season. The midfielder had previously stated in October of the prior year that he would not discuss his future until after the World Cup. His contract, expiring in 2027 with an additional year option, now looks set for renegotiation given his impact on the pitch.