Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes and Manchester City striker Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw have been voted the 2025/26 Football Writers' Association Footballers of the Year, recognizing their outstanding individual campaigns in English football.
Fernandes becomes the first Manchester United player to claim the prestigious award since Wayne Rooney in the 2009/10 season. The 31-year-old playmaker has been instrumental for United this term, recording eight goals and a remarkable 19 assists in the Premier League. He now stands just one assist away from matching the all-time top-flight record of 20, jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
The Portuguese captain's creative influence has been unparalleled. According to Opta, Fernandes has created 120 chances this season, nearly double the total of the next highest player in the league. His contributions have been pivotal in helping Manchester United secure their return to the UEFA Champions League.
Fernandes joins an illustrious list of United legends to have won the FWA award, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona, George Best, Bobby Charlton, Roy Keane, and Teddy Sheringham. His leadership and consistency have silenced critics throughout a dominant personal season.
On the women's side, Khadija Shaw has won the award for the second time, having previously claimed the honor in the 2023/24 campaign. The Jamaica international has been in devastating form, scoring 19 goals in just 21 Women's Super League appearances. Her prolific finishing has powered Manchester City to their first WSL title in a decade.
Shaw is on course to win the WSL Golden Boot for a third consecutive season, a testament to her sustained excellence. Since joining City from Bordeaux in 2021, the 29-year-old has amassed an incredible 110 goals in 133 appearances for the club.
Despite her success, Sky Sports News has reported that Shaw is set to depart Manchester City when her contract expires this summer. The striker is reportedly eager to explore her options, with interest believed to be coming from Chelsea and clubs in the United States.
Based on reporting from SkySports | News.