Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been awarded the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year for the 2023/24 season, presented by Adidas. This marks the third time Fernandes has received this prestigious accolade since joining United in 2020.
Despite suffering a rare injury, Fernandes finished the season strong, playing a key role for manager Erik ten Hag’s team. He created more chances than any other player in the Premier League and was joint-top scorer for United, alongside Rasmus Hojlund. Fernandes scored 15 goals in all competitions, just one behind Hojlund, and provided eight assists in the league, doubling the tally of any of his teammates.
Fernandes enjoyed his best run of form, scoring in five consecutive matches, including a double in a win against Sheffield United. He was named Player of the Month twice, in August and April, and received three additional nominations.
Fernandes was the Man of the Match in the FA Cup semi-final shootout victory against Coventry City, scoring during the cup run. He aims to lead United to victory against Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday.
Fans showed their appreciation by voting Fernandes as the clear winner, with 40% of the vote. His closest competitor was Diogo Dalot, who garnered 20% for his consistent performances. Youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho finished third and fourth, respectively.
Fernandes has now won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year three times, joining the ranks of David De Gea and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have each won it four times. Fernandes previously won the award in his debut half-season in 2019/20 and again in 2020/21. He was runner-up last year behind Marcus Rashford.
