Fernandes and Shaw Claim Football Writers' Association Awards for 2025

Bruno Fernandes has captured the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year honour, securing 45% of votes cast by more than 900 FWA members. During a campaign where Manchester United have struggled considerably, their captain has been the solitary bright spot worth watching.

The Portuguese midfielder recorded 19 assists in Premier League action — just one shy of the all-time single-season record. He's practically carried United back into Champions League qualification on his own shoulders, which considering the chaos surrounding Old Trafford this term, represents a remarkable achievement. Declan Rice and Erling Haaland rounded out the top three — two stars who've excelled at properly functioning clubs. That backdrop makes Fernandes' accomplishment even more impressive.

First Red Devils Winner Since Rooney

Fernandes becomes the first Manchester United player to claim this prestigious award since Wayne Rooney took home the trophy in 2010. The FWA honour has been presented annually since 1947, establishing it as the longest-running individual recognition in football. Rooney's Manchester United feels like a completely different organization — because it genuinely was. That the Red Devils have won it again through a player dragging an underperforming squad rather than captaining a title-winning side speaks volumes about Fernandes' contributions this campaign.

From a wagering perspective, his advanced metrics — including chance creation, progressive ball carries, and assist percentage — have consistently positioned him among the smartest selections for player-of-the-match betting markets throughout the season. Anyone following the numbers closely saw this award coming from miles away.

Shaw's WSL Excellence Equally Undeniable

Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw claimed the women's award after powering Manchester City to the WSL championship — their first league title in a full decade — with 19 goals across just 21 matches. She edged out Arsenal's Alessia Russo and Chelsea's Lauren James for the distinction, and the gap in overall influence wasn't particularly narrow.

Shaw previously won the same award in 2024. Consecutive FWA trophies, plus a league championship to accompany this latest recognition. The Jamaican international has been the division's most dependable goalscorer for two straight campaigns.

Bruno Fernandes: 19 Premier League assists in 2024/25, one away from the competition record
First Manchester United FWA recipient since Wayne Rooney, 2010
Khadija Shaw: 19 WSL goals in 21 appearances, second straight FWA women's award
Manchester City's first WSL championship in 10 years

Two Manchester-based clubs, two awards, two footballers who've been impossible to overlook. At least regarding individual accolades, it's been a solid season to represent City or United — though which squad you're on makes all the difference.