Picture of Bruno Fernandes
Picture of Bruno Fernandes
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes was one of the best players in the Premier League last season but is having a forgettable 2025/26 campaign. The Portuguese registered a record-breaking 21 assists in the league last season, winning the Premier League Player of the Season and helping his team finish third in the league.
Unfortunately, Fernandes has endured a dip in form this campaign, managing just one assist and four goals in 12 games across all competitions. Their talisman’s struggles have also hurt the Red Devils, who are now 17th in the league table after nine games.
Nevertheless, the 32-year-old’s performance in the past year has seen him included among the candidates for a prestigious accolade.
Fernandes shortlisted for FIFPRO Men’s World 11
Fernandes has been shortlisted for the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 for 2026. This super team, comprising the 11 best players in the world in their respective positions in the past year, is voted for by over 20,000 footballers from across the planet.
Having already won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year awards, along with a record fifth Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year, the latest feat is another feather in the Portuguese’s cap.
However, making the final cut will not be easy. The United skipper is among 26 players shortlisted for the team, which will be set out in a 4-3-3 formation.
That means that Fernandes will face direct competition from Enzo Fernandez and Declan Rice for a place in the team. Other shortlisted midfielders include Jude Bellingham, Pedri, Rodri and Vitinha. This year’s team will be announced on Monday, 9 November.
Which former United players have won the award?
The FIFPRO Men’s World 11 was introduced in 2005 and Cristiano Ronaldo was the first United player to make it to the final team in 2007. The Red Devils are the ninth-most represented club, with eight players winning it during their time at Old Trafford.
The Portuguese superstar was also included in the prestigious team on three additional occasions during his time at Old Trafford. Former United skipper Nemanja Vidic also made it into the FIFPRO Men’s World 11 twice during his stint with the Premier League giants.
Other former players who have been included in the super team once are Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra, David De Gea, Angel Di Maria and, most recently, Casemiro.
Fernandes, as such, has the chance to further cement his name among United legends next week. Meanwhile, the United skipper’s contract expires at the end of this season, and his future also hangs in the balance after publicly questioning Michael Carrick’s tactics last week.
Perhaps this would be the perfect boost for the Portuguese Magnifico to get his season back in order.
Featured image by Justin Setterfield via Getty Images
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