Bruno Fernandes has been crowned the 2026 Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year, narrowly edging out Declan Rice in one of the closest votes in recent history.
The Manchester United captain secured 45% of votes from over 900 FWA members, finishing just 28 votes ahead of Rice, who has been instrumental in Arsenal’s impressive title push this season.
Despite beating him to the prestigious award, Fernandes was full of praise for the England international, revealing he had hoped Rice would join him at Old Trafford before his record-breaking £105m move to Arsenal in 2023.
Speaking after receiving the award, Fernandes said he deeply admires Rice both as a player and as a person, recalling their time training together in Portugal ahead of the 2023/24 season.
According to him, Rice possessed not only the footballing qualities but also the professionalism and personality that would have made him a perfect fit for Manchester United.
Rice has enjoyed a standout campaign with Arsenal, playing a key role in their midfield dominance as they chase their first Premier League title since 2004 under manager Mikel Arteta.
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His performances have earned widespread praise, making him one of the league’s most consistent players this season.
However, Fernandes’ numbers ultimately gave him the edge. The Portuguese playmaker has delivered an exceptional season, registering eight goals and closing in on the Premier League assist record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
Addressing comparisons between himself and Rice, Fernandes emphasized the difference in their roles on the pitch. He noted that while his position demands goals and assists, Rice operates deeper in midfield with different tactical responsibilities.
Fernandes also showed humility in victory, stating that Rice would have been a deserving winner as well. He acknowledged that such awards often come down to numbers and fine margins, rather than a definitive measure of who the best player is.
The recognition caps off a remarkable individual season for Fernandes, while also highlighting the growing influence of Rice in English football setting the stage for more intense rivalries between the two midfield stars in the years ahead.
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