Manchester United have been told that one of their “underrated” players must be discussed when fans to select the side’s Player of the Year for 2024/25.
Manchester United’s 2024/25 campaign has been one to forget for the club, with Rúben Amorim’s men sitting 14th in the Premier League table.
Although the side are just 90 minutes away from reaching the Europa League final after a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club in midweek, winning the tournament may still not make up for the poor form fans have had to endure.
At the start of the season, United kicked off with Erik ten Hag at the helm, but the Dutch manager was sacked in October and replaced by Amorim, who ripped up all his foundations and started to implement a new philosophy.
Despite the turbulence, a few players in the squad have stayed somewhat consistent with their performances, and conversations are starting to arise discussing who should be granted the club’s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.
“Underrated” star must be considered for POTY award
With 37 goal involvements so far this season, Bruno Fernandes is no doubt the standout candidate for the award – he is the only player who has maintained high output levels despite the team’s poor results.
However, speaking exclusively to UtdDistrict, former Premier League and Arsenal striker Alan Smith, now famed for his Sky Sports commentary, has stated that although Fernandes is Amorim’s star man, “underrated” Diogo Dalot and 2024 signing Noussair Mazraoui are two other candidates for the award.
“For me, Bruno Fernandes has been their star man virtually every week,” Smith told UtdDistrict when asked for his Player of the Year verdict.
“He had a slightly quieter game at Bournemouth, but he’s been so consistent, and where they would have been without him, I don’t know. He’s virtually been their man of the match every week.
“I think Diogo Dalot’s been steady as well and maybe a little underrated. He’s played both sides, left wing back, right wing back. He’s versatile, and he’s a threat. Mazraoui has come in as well done quite well.”
Fernandes in contention for triple award swoop
Aside from likely being voted the United fans’ Player of the Year, Fernandes may also win two other awards once the campaign ends.
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As always, United’s squad also vote for their Players’ Player of the Year award, currently held by Dalot, but Fernandes will likely be handed this honour.
Aside from these two awards, the club captain is also in contention to secure the club’s Goal of the Year award, with sweet strikes against Arsenal (one away from home in the FA Cup and the free-kick at Old Trafford) both high on the list.
However, Casemiro’s long-range strike against Leicester City and Kobbie Mainoo’s stunning finish against Olympique Lyonnais will no doubt challenge Fernandes’ efforts.
Alan Smith was speaking exclusively to UtdDistrict on behalf of BestBettingSites.
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