Bruno Fernandes Clinches 2026 PFA Players’ Player of the Year Award

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been named the 2026 Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Players’ Player of the Year after an outstanding campaign for the Premier League side.

The Portuguese midfielder received the honour at the 53rd PFA Awards ceremony held in Manchester on Tuesday, following a vote by fellow professional footballers.

Fernandes emerged ahead of a strong field of nominees, including Manchester City stars Erling Haaland and Rayan Cherki, as well as Arsenal trio Declan Rice, David Raya and Gabriel Magalhães.

The award crowns an impressive 2025/26 season for the midfielder, who played a vital role in helping Manchester United secure a third-place league finish and qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

One of the standout performers in the Premier League, Fernandes finished the campaign with a record 21 assists, further underlining his influence in United’s midfield. He had also been recognised earlier in the season with both the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award and the Premier League Player of the Season honour.

Manchester City striker Haaland was among the leading contenders after claiming the Premier League Golden Boot for a third time, scoring 27 goals in 35 appearances. Cherki also earned recognition for his impressive debut season in English football.

Arsenal’s title-winning campaign was reflected in the shortlist, with Rice, Raya and Gabriel all earning nominations for their contributions.

The PFA Players’ Player of the Year award is widely regarded as one of football’s most prestigious individual honours because the winner is chosen by fellow players.

Fernandes’ latest accolade adds to a growing list of achievements since joining Manchester United in 2020, reinforcing his status as one of the club’s most influential figures.