By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has won the Premier League Player of the Season award after an outstanding 2025/26 campaign. The Portugal midfielder received the honour following public voting and expert panel selections. Fernandes starred throughout the season with goals, assists, and creative leadership, helping United secure third place and a UEFA Champions League spot. Meanwhile, Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly won the Young Player of the Season award after his breakthrough year.
Bruno Fernandes Crowned Premier League’s Best Player
Fernandes continued his remarkable form this season and delivered consistent performances for Manchester United.
The midfielder equalled the Premier League assist record after setting up his 20th assist against Nottingham Forest last weekend.
He also created 132 chances during the campaign, which was the highest total in the league. Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai finished second but trailed Fernandes by 43 chances.
This recognition follows another major individual achievement after Fernandes won the Football Writers’ Association Men’s Player of the Year award earlier this month.
Notably, Fernandes became the first Manchester United player to win the Premier League Player of the Season award since Nemanja Vidic achieved the feat in 2011.
Fernandes Helps Manchester United Secure Champions League Return
Fernandes played a central role in Manchester United’s strong league finish.
His leadership and creativity helped the club finish third and qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
United will conclude their league campaign with an away fixture against Brighton on Sunday.
Nico O’Reilly Wins Young Player of the Season Award
Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly earned the Premier League Young Player of the Season award after a standout season.
The 21-year-old recorded five goals and three assists in 34 league appearances.
O’Reilly joined Manchester City’s academy at the age of eight and developed into one of the club’s brightest young talents.
His performances also earned him a first senior England cap in November. Additionally, Thomas Tuchel included him in England’s 26-man World Cup squad.
Strong Competition for Young Player Award
O’Reilly beat several impressive nominees to secure the award.
The shortlist included:
- Rayan Cherki (Manchester City)
- Junior Kroupi (Bournemouth)
- Alex Scott (Bournemouth)
- Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United)
- Lewis Hall (Newcastle United)
- Michael Kayode (Brentford)
- Matheus Fernandes (West Ham)
Carrick’s Coaching Team Extended
Elsewhere, Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick strengthened his coaching setup.
Steve Holland, Jonny Evans, Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson all signed new two-year contracts.
Carrick also completed a permanent two-year managerial deal after initially taking charge on an interim basis following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January.
