LONDON – Portuguese international Bruno Fernandes has capped off an outstanding season by being named the best player in the English Premier League. The Manchester United captain received the prestigious award after a vote by fans and industry experts, following up on a recent triumph in a poll conducted by football journalists. The Premier League announced the information on its official website.

The 31-year-old midfielder played in 34 league matches this season, scoring eight goals and, most importantly, providing twenty assists. This equaled the competition's historical record for the most assists in a single season. Only Kevin De Bruyne in the 2019/2020 season and Thierry Henry in the 2002/2003 season had previously achieved the same feat.

Fernandes was a key player for Manchester United throughout the season, which saw the team significantly improve after a disappointing previous year. While the famous English club finished in 15th place in the previous season, this year they secured third place with one round to go, guaranteeing a return to the prestigious UEFA Champions League. The performances of the Portuguese playmaker were often cited as a major factor in the team's improved play.

Football experts particularly praised Fernandes' creativity, leadership skills, and ability to make a difference in crucial matches. The United captain repeatedly helped the team with goals and assists in important games against rivals from the top of the table. He also played a significant role in stabilizing the team's atmosphere after a turbulent period in recent years.

The award holds symbolic significance for Manchester United. Fernandes is the first player from the club since 2011 to receive the award for the best player in the Premier League. The last player to achieve this was Serbian defender Nemanja Vidić. Before Fernandes, the legendary striker Wayne Rooney was the last player to win both the journalists' and the official league poll in the same season, in 2010.

Fernandes himself thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans after receiving the award. He emphasized that individual success is the result of the entire team's work and that the greatest joy for him is Manchester United's return to the European elite. The Portuguese midfielder also stated that the club wants to compete for the title and success in European competitions next season.

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