Bruno Fernandes hails Arsenal, admits Gunners are ‘very strong, hard to play against’

​Fernandes had earlier acknowledged that winning the 2025–26 PFA Players’ Player of the Year award is a “very proud moment” in his career.

​By Kehinde Okeowo

​Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has acknowledged Arsenal’s remarkable achievement during the 2025–26 Premier League season, admitting the North London club are a handful.

​The Portuguese midfielder hailed the Gunners on Tuesday night while speaking on the red carpet at the 2026 PFA Awards ceremony after winning the Men’s Player of the Season.

​Arsenal clinched the Premier League title, marking the end of a 22-year title drought at the Emirates Stadium last season.

​ALSO READ: ‘Very proud moment’ – Bruno Fernandes savours winning PFA Players’ Player of the Year award

​In addition to their league trophy, Mikel Arteta’s men came very close to clinching their first UEFA Champions League (UCL) title, ultimately losing in a penalty shootout to defending champions Paris Saint-Germain in the final after a 1-1 draw following extra time.

​Speaking after being crowned the 2025–26 PFA Players’ Player of the Year, Fernandes—whose team, Man United, secured a third-place finish last season following a disappointing 2024–25 domestic campaign in which they finished 16th—praised Arsenal for their outstanding performance during the 2025–26 season.

​“Arsenal were incredible last season. They were very strong and challenging to compete against. Not only in the Premier League, but they also reached the Champions League final. They have earned all the respect, and the entire Premier League should acknowledge that,” the 31-year-old said via The Touchline T.