Wayne Rooney has delivered his verdicts on Manchester United's standout performers this season, praising Bruno Fernandes as the Premier League's finest while selecting an unlikely candidate as the division's most-improved talent. Fernandes claimed the Player of the Season award after breaking the Premier League assists record with 21 in a single campaign, surpassing the previous mark of 20 held jointly by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.
Speaking on his BBC podcast, the United legend expressed his delight at Fernandes' recognition. "He has been the heartbeat of that team," Rooney said of the Portuguese midfielder. "For me he's been the player of the year because of the influence he has, how driven he is and he's scored a few goals as well." Fernandes' displays proved instrumental in securing Champions League qualification for the Red Devils, despite Arsenal clinching their first league title in 22 years.
Shaw's Resurgence Impresses Rooney
In a more surprising selection, Luke Shaw earned Rooney's nod as the Premier League's most-improved player. The left-back, now an experienced campaigner at Old Trafford, has delivered performances well above his standard from recent seasons. "I know he's an experienced player now but I think his level this season has been much better than they have been in recent seasons," Rooney explained. Shaw's consistency in defence has complemented United's midfield strength, forming a crucial part of their push for European football next term.
Rooney dismissed suggestions that Kobbie Mainoo deserved the accolade, attributing the academy product's prominence to changed circumstances rather than genuine improvement. "I don't think he's improved—it was just the fact he wasn't playing under the former manager," Rooney noted, highlighting how managerial transitions can alter perception of player development.
Beyond United's borders, Rooney identified Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal as his signing of the season. The Swedish striker has brought a new dimension to Mikel Arteta's attack, providing the clinical finishing that helped end the Gunners' 22-year title drought. With Fernandes' record-breaking campaign and Shaw's resurgence underscoring United's progress, the club faces crucial momentum heading into next season's Champions League campaign.
