Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Manchester City's Khadija Shaw have secured the prestigious PFA Player of the Year awards following historic individual seasons.
- Bruno Fernandes set a new Premier League record for most assists (21).
- Khadija Shaw secured her second Women's PFA Player of the Year title.
- Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly was named Men's Young Player of the Year.
In a stellar showcase of individual excellence, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been named the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Men's Player of the Year. Simultaneously, Manchester City powerhouse Khadija Shaw has claimed the Women's award for the second time, cementing her status as a dominant force in the game.
The 2025–26 season will be remembered as the year of Fernandes. The Portuguese international achieved legendary status by breaking the Premier League record for assists, providing 21 goals and surpassing the marks previously set by icons Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. His nine goals and creative mastery were instrumental in guiding United to a third-place finish and a crucial return to the Champions League.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Fernandes' record-breaking season marks a shift in the Premier League's creative landscape. His ability to orchestrate play under pressure has transformed Manchester United from a struggling side into a top-tier contender, proving that elite playmaking is the cornerstone of modern tactical success.
"It is obviously a very proud moment. They are the ones you go on the pitch against, and it’s probably not easy to vote for someone you play against," said Fernandes.
On the women's side, Khadija Shaw's performance was nothing short of clinical. By scoring 21 goals, she secured her third consecutive Golden Boot and led Manchester City to their first Women’s Super League title in ten years. Her consistency has set a new benchmark for strikers globally.
Historical Background
The PFA Awards are unique because they are voted on by the players themselves, making them one of the most respected individual honors in football. For players like Fernandes, winning this award signifies the ultimate respect from their direct competitors on the pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Who won the Men's Young Player of the Year?
Answer: Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly was named the Men's Young Player of the Year.
Question 2: How many goals did Khadija Shaw score this season?
Answer: She scored 21 goals to secure her third consecutive Golden Boot.