Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Manchester City's Khadija Shaw have been honored as the PFA Players of the Year following standout seasons.
Bruno Fernandes has cemented his status as one of the Premier League’s most influential figures he Year award. The Manchester United captain’s recognition comes after a spectacular 2025–26 campaign, during which he redefined creative standards in English football. His ability to dictate play and provide critical service to his teammates served as the engine for United’s resurgence, helping the club overcome early-season inconsistencies to secure a top-three finish and a coveted return to the Champions League.
The Portuguese international’s statistical output was nothing short of historic. mier League record previously held nine goals of his own, proving his versatility and reliability in high-pressure scenarios. This PFA honor adds to his earlier success in May, when he was also named the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year, completing a prestigious personal double.
Reflecting on the achievement, the 31-year-old expressed deep gratitude for the recognition from his peers. He noted that receiving an award voted on ige to the honor. His leadership under Michael Carrick’s management has been a cornerstone of the club’s tactical evolution, and this accolade serves as a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
In the women’s game, Manchester City forward Khadija Shaw has once again been crowned the PFA Player of the Year. This win marks the second time the prolific striker has claimed the award, underscoring her consistency and clinical finishing at the highest level of the sport. Shaw was instrumental in Manchester City’s domestic success, spearheading an attack that finally broke a decade-long drought to capture the Women’s Super League title.
Shaw’s contributions were statistically overwhelming, as she netted 21 goals during the season. This tally secured her a third consecutive Golden Boot, a feat that highlights her status as the most feared striker in the division. Her ability to find the back of the net in crucial matches was the deciding factor in City’s campaign, ensuring they remained competitive across all fronts and ultimately lifting the league trophy.
The recognition of Shaw’s performance serves as a highlight in a season defined me a focal point for her team’s offensive strategy. o have consistently demonstrated excellence, marking her as a defining figure in the growth and professionalization of the women’s game.
The awards ceremony also shone a spotlight on the next generation of football stars, with Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly taking home the PFA Men’s Young Player of the Year award. At just 21 years old, O’Reilly has already proven his mettle on the biggest stages, notably scoring a brace in the League Cup final victory against Arsenal. His contribution was vital to a season that saw City secure both the League Cup and the FA Cup, showcasing his development into a reliable first-team player.
Reflecting on his rapid rise, O’Reilly emphasized the balance of his achievements over the past year. Beyond his domestic trophy haul with City, he gained valuable experience playing on the international stage at the World Cup. This exposure has clearly accelerated his growth, and his recognition football.
The broader PFA Team of the Year highlighted the depth of talent across the league, with Arsenal maintaining a strong presence Saliba, Jurrien Timber, and Declan Rice. These selections, alongside Fernandes and Brentford’s Igor Thiago, reflect a season defined e individual brilliance often captures the headlines, the success of these clubs remains rooted in a combination of veteran leadership and the emergence of bright, hungry young talent.
