Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been included in a six-man shortlist for the PFA Players’ Player of the Year accolade. The 30-year-old Portugal international is joined by Liverpool stars Mohamed Salah and Alexis Mac Allister, Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, Arsenal’s Declan Rice, and Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.
This prestigious award is voted for by fellow players and is considered one of the most respected individual honors in English football. In recent years, it has been dominated by Manchester City players, with Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Kevin De Bruyne (twice) receiving the recognition. However, this season’s shortlist does not feature a single representative from the reigning champions, marking a break from recent patterns.
Fernandes shines despite United struggles
Although Manchester United endured a turbulent campaign, Fernandes stood out in a challenging environment. Even the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim could not steer the team back into form, but the Portuguese midfielder remained one of their few consistent performers.
Operating in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 setup, Fernandes delivered eight goals and 11 assists, contributing to nearly half of United’s overall goals. His influence remained significant despite the team’s disappointing league position, reinforcing his reputation as a key figure at Old Trafford.
Salah, Isak, Rice and others make their case
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah leads the shortlist with an extraordinary return of 29 goals and 18 assists, driving his side to a league title in Arne Slot’s debut season. His teammate Mac Allister played a quieter but vital role, controlling the tempo of matches in midfield and providing composure alongside Ryan Gravenberch.
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer followed up his breakout season with another strong showing, helping the Blues secure a top-four finish and a return to Champions League football. Newcastle’s Isak, meanwhile, hit 23 goals to secure second place in the Golden Boot race behind Salah, playing a major role in Newcastle’s qualification for Europe’s elite competition.
Arsenal’s Declan Rice also earned a place on the shortlist after a series of powerful displays in the middle of the park. The £100 million signing from West Ham United repaid the club’s faith with consistent performances across the campaign, anchoring Mikel Arteta’s side through key matches.
