Fernandes becomes first United player to win PFA prize in 16 years

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was named the PFA Player of the Year for the 2025/26 season on Tuesday. His outstanding performance saw him break the all-time record for Premier League assists, setting up 21 goals in the process. This surpassed the previous marks set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Fernandes, 31, also scored nine times during a successful season for Manchester United, which finished third in the Premier League under manager Michael Carrick and secured a return to the Champions League.

Fernandes expressed his pride in the achievement, acknowledging that it was a difficult decision to vote for him as he plays against many of his award nominees. PFA President David Gill commended Fernandes' individual brilliance and collective contributions to Manchester United's success.

Meanwhile, Manchester City's Khadija Shaw claimed the PFA Women's Player of the Year award for the second time. Shaw's impressive season included scoring 21 goals and securing City's first Women's Super League title in a decade. She was joined by fellow City stars Nico Orlando, Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki, and Antoine Semenyo in the team of the year. For the men's category, City's Nico Orlando was named the PFA Young Player of the Year.