Bruno Fernandes and Khadija Shaw have been named the 2025-26 Football Writers' Association Footballers of the Year, recognizing dominant campaigns across both the men's and women's game. The Manchester United captain claimed the men's award following a record-breaking season, while the Manchester City striker cemented her status as a prolific force in the Women's Super League.
Fernandes Ends United's 15-Year Drought
Fernandes becomes the first Manchester United player to win the prestigious men's award since Wayne Rooney in 2010, ending a significant gap in the club's individual honors. The 31-year-old midfielder delivered eight goals and 19 Premier League assists as United secured a return to the Champions League, a direct reflection of his playmaking influence throughout the campaign. His tally of assists ranks among the elite in modern football history, with only two players—Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne—having reached 20 in a single Premier League season.
Fernandes defeated tough competition including Arsenal's Declan Rice and Manchester City's Erling Haaland to claim the accolade. His recognition extends a lineage of United greats, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona, George Best, and Sir Bobby Charlton as captains who have won the FWA award while wearing the red shirt. With three remaining fixtures ahead, Fernandes has an opportunity to establish the outright assists record and further enhance his legacy at Old Trafford.
Shaw's Historic Second Title and Summer Exit
In the women's category, Shaw earned her second FWA Footballer of the Year award after guiding Manchester City to their first WSL title in a decade. The striker netted 19 league goals during the campaign, edging out England internationals Alessia Russo and Lauren James for the honor. She joins an exclusive group alongside Sam Kerr and Fran Kirby as only the second player to claim this accolade twice.
Despite her vital contributions to City's title success, Shaw faces an uncertain future at the club. Her contract expires this summer, with reports indicating serious interest from Chelsea and multiple American clubs. With 110 goals in 133 appearances for City, Shaw remains among the WSL's most prolific strikers. Her final games in a City shirt will likely focus on securing a third consecutive Golden Boot before a potential domestic or transatlantic move reshapes the upcoming transfer window landscape.
