Manchester United star shortlisted for Ballon d’Or | OneFootball

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Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is reportedly set to feature on the shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d’Or after a record-breaking season.

History maker

Fernandes enjoyed a magical 2025/26 season, playing a leading role as United finished third and secured Champions League football after a two-year absence.

The Portugal international broke the all-time record for Premier League assists, setting up 21 goals to surpass Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

Fernandes also found the back of the net nine times.

He scooped up United’s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year prize for an unprecedented fifth time and was also named the FWA’s Footballer of the Year in May.

Last month, Fernandes won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award for the very first time. Even more significantly, the award was voted for by his fellow players in the division.

Fernandes made the Team of the Year and he’s carried that form straight into the new season, banging in a sensational hat-trick in United’s 5-2 win over Ipswich

Now, Sam Cohen reveals that the United ace is a contender to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

Fernandes in line for glory

According to Cohen on X, “EXCLUSIVE: Bruno Fernandes is set to be named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Men’s Ballon d’Or.”

“The Manchester United captain will feature on the shortlist, which is officially revealed tomorrow.”

Whether Fernandes ultimately clinches the award is a debate for another day but the nomination itself is yet another feather in his cap as his career continues to ascend.

The 31-year-old and his teammates return to action on Thursday when they face Sabah in their Champions League opener.