Bruno Fernandes given shock verdict despite Man Utd's worst-ever season
Bruno Fernandes was the only shining light in a dark season for Ruben Amorim's side, one which saw Manchester United finish the campaign down in 15th place
Bruno Fernandes has been recognised by his fellow professionals – despite Manchester United's worst-ever Premier League campaign.
United skipper Fernandes was the only shining light in a dark season for Ruben Amorim's side, one which saw them finish the campaign down in 15th place.
The Red Devils lost 18 of their 38 Premier League games and failed to secure European football for only the second time in 35 years, after losing the Europa League final 1-0 to Tottenham.
Despite such a shocking season, Fernandes has been honoured by his fellow professionals, with the 30-year-old making the six-man shortlist for the PFA Players' Player of the Year award.
Fernandes is up against Liverpool duo Mo Salah and Alexis MacAllister, as well as Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and Chelsea forward Cole Palmer.
United skipper Fernandes scored eight goals in 36 league appearances last season and 19 in all competitions. The award will be presented at a ceremony in Manchester on August 19.
The last time a United player won the accolade was Wayne Rooney in 2010, with Manchester City and England forward Phil Foden the current holder.
Fernandes considered leaving United this summer, after being approached by Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal over a move that would have trebled his current £300,000-a-week salary.
But after discussing the potential move with his wife, Ana Pinho, Fernandes decided to reject the lucrative proposal and commit his future to United.
"The president of Al Hilal called me a month ago to ask about the possibility of me moving there," said Fernandes. "I had to wait a while to think about the future. As I've always said, I would be willing to do it if United thought it was best to move on. I spoke with the coach, Ruben Amorim, who really tried to talk me out of it.
" Manchester United said they didn't want to sell me. They said if I wanted to go I could, but they didn't need the money. From my side, it was a very ambitious proposal, the president was a fantastic person. I never talked about the money, it ended up coming up later, with my agent.
"I had to make the decision as a family and understand what I wanted for my future. That was the question my wife asked, what my professional goals would be. At no point did she say yes or no, she always supported me and put my professional side first.
"It was an easy move, even at a family level. I had Ruben Neves, Joao Cancelo. My children are used to playing with theirs. But I simply want to stay at the highest level, playing in the big competitions, because I still feel capable of that.
"I want to continue to be happy and do what I love most. I'm still very passionate about this sport. It's my way of seeing football and I'm happy with my decision."
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