Bruno Fernandes and Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw Honored as FWA Footballers of the Year 2025/26

Fernandes Ends Manchester United’s 16-Year Wait for FWA Recognition

Bruno Fernandes, the influential midfielder for Manchester United, has been awarded the Football Writers’ Association footballer of the Year for the 2025/26 season.This marks a critically important milestone as he becomes the first player from Old Trafford to receive this honour as Wayne Rooney in 2009/10.Throughout this campaign, Fernandes has impressed with eight goals and an exceptional 19 assists in Premier League matches.

This accolade places him alongside iconic figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Roy Keane, Eric Cantona, George Best, Bobby Charlton, Teddy sheringham, and Johnny Carey-Manchester United legends who have previously earned this prestigious title.

Leading Candidates for the Men’s FWA Award

• 1. Bruno Fernandes
• 2. Declan Rice
• 3. Erling Haaland

Nearing Historic Assist Milestones: Fernandes’ Creative Brilliance

The 31-year-old maestro is tantalizingly close to matching one of football’s most celebrated records-he requires just one more assist in his remaining three fixtures to equal Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne’s record of 20 assists in a single top-tier league season. His visionary playmaking was instrumental in propelling Manchester United back into Champions League contention after several years outside Europe’s premier competition.

Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw: A Dominant Force in Women’s Football Once More

Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw from Manchester city has secured her second consecutive FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year award-a rare achievement previously accomplished only by Sam Kerr and Fran Kirby. The Jamaican forward boasts an impressive tally of 19 goals across just 21 appearances in this season’s Women’s Super League.

This remarkable scoring prowess played a crucial role in guiding City to their first WSL championship title since over ten years ago while positioning Shaw as a leading contender for her third straight Golden Boot award.

The Top Three Female Players Recognized by FWA This Season:

• 1. Khadija “Bunny” Shaw
• 2. Alessia Russo
• 3.Lauren James

A New Chapter Ahead: Shaw’s Contract Sparks Transfer Speculation Worldwide

The prolific striker is reportedly set to leave Manchester City upon contract expiration this summer despite recent successes with her club. Since joining from Bordeaux in 2021, she has amassed an remarkable total of 110 goals over just 133 appearances across all competitions.

Chelsea is among several clubs rumored to be pursuing her signature alongside interest from Major League Soccer (MLS) franchises and other international leagues eager to bolster their attacking options with her goal-scoring talent.

The Making of a Premier League icon: Why Bruno Fernandes Stands Apart

This season’s data underscores why Fernandes was selected ahead of other stars like Declan Rice or erling Haaland as England’s premier player:

• An amazing creation rate with 120 chances generated*, nearly twice that produced by his nearest rival;
• A near-record number of assists approaching historic benchmarks;
• A leadership presence that endures criticism yet inspires teammates consistently;
• An unmatched ability not only on set-pieces but also through open-play creativity;
• A reliable performer maintaining excellence even during challenging spells at Old Trafford.

“He elevates everyone around him,” remarked teammate Matheus Cunha recently about Fernandes’ influence.
“His commitment during difficult moments reveals true character; he genuinely deserves these honors.”

Sustaining Legacy Amidst Adversity at Old Trafford

Mimicking legends like Bryan Robson before him, Bruno remains a pillar amid turbulent times at Manchester United-exemplifying resilience both on-field and off it while earning admiration from fans and peers alike.
His leadership qualities have been repeatedly demonstrated despite occasional scrutiny faced by high-profile players under intense pressure.
This recognition solidifies his place among modern football’s most impactful midfielders during what many regard as one of english football’s most fiercely competitive eras ever recorded.
 
*Note: All statistics are accurate up until June 2026 based on official league data providers.

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