Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes wins Football Writers' men's award

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has won the Football Writers' Association's men's Footballer of the Year award.

Midfielder Fernandes has scored eight goals and provided 20 assists in 34 games across all competitions for the Red Devils this season.

Fernandes finished with 45% of the votes from the FWA's 900-plus members.

He claimed 28 more votes than Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice in second, while Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was third.

Portugal international Fernandes has played a key role in United's upturn in form under interim boss Michael Carrick.

United are set finish the season without a trophy for the second season in a row, but they are on course to finish third in the Premier League and secure a place in next season's Champions League.

He is the first United player to win the FWA men's award since Wayne Rooney in 2010.

The 31-year-old joined United from Portuguese club Sporting in January 2020 for £67.7m and clocked up his 300th appearance for the club earlier this season.

An impressive 2025-26 campaign has come after his future at Old Trafford had appeared uncertain.

At the end of last season, club officials told Fernandes they would not stand in his way if he wanted to accept a huge offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal.

Fernandes rejected it and then dismissed subsequent interest from other teams in Europe to remain with United.

It is understood Fernandes' contract, which expires in 2027, has the option of an additional year.

Given his performances this season, it would be remarkable if United do not come up with a new deal, even if co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is trying to drive down wage costs.

Fernandes said in October last year he will not discuss his future with anyone until after the upcoming World Cup.