Bruno Fernandes has been named the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year, and the Manchester United captain couldn't hide his pride. "It's very special," he said, after polling nearly 45% of the vote following a standout season that saw him rack up 19 assists and help guide United back into the Champions League.

The Portugal midfielder becomes the first Red Devil to claim the prestigious award since Wayne Rooney in 2010—a fact that makes the honor even sweeter. "I know the club hasn't had a winner since Wayne, and that makes it even more special for me," Fernandes shared. He now joins an elite list of United legends to have won the gong, including George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton, Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, and Teddy Sheringham.

Fernandes was quick to thank the FWA members who cast their votes, while also acknowledging those who chose other players. "Everyone has different opinions and tastes, but I'm very happy and honored," he said. "It's always nice to see so many people have voted for you. This is a massive award in the UK, and it comes from people who follow football across the country—people who work behind the scenes. That makes it very special."

Though the 29-year-old admitted he'd rather celebrate team success than individual accolades, he recognized the significance of the moment. "As a player, you want these occasions to show you're doing things right," he explained. "But I also want to achieve everything those other United players achieved in terms of winning with the club. Being in their company with this award is massively important to me—I won't hide from that."

Fernandes also had warm words for interim manager Michael Carrick, praising him as "amazing" for his guidance during a transitional period at Old Trafford. With his playmaking brilliance and leadership on full display this season, the Footballer of the Year honor feels like a fitting cap to a remarkable campaign.