Gary Lineker Names Man United Star as Declan Rice Player of the Season Rival

Gary Lineker backs Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes to rival Declan Rice for Premier League Player of the Season honours.

Gary Lineker believes Bruno Fernandes now rival Declan Rice in the race for Premier League Player of the Season, suggesting the Manchester United captain could emerge as a serious challenger if his side maintain their late-season momentum. However, Arsenal’s midfield general remains firmly in contention as the driving force behind the Gunners’ title charge.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Gary Lineker highlighted Fernandes’ growing influence following Manchester United’s tactical reshuffle under interim manager Michael Carrick. The former England striker pointed to Fernandes’ advanced role as a key factor in his improved output.

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Lineker noted that Fernandes has benefited from playing closer to goal, contributing assists and dictating games in the final third. While stressing that it is still early in the race, he suggested Fernandes could force his way into the conversation alongside the league’s elite performers if United continue climbing the table.

The Portuguese midfielder has enjoyed one of his strongest league campaigns in recent years, registering five goals and twelve assists in 21 Premier League appearances. His two-assist display against Fulham underlined his creative importance and leadership during United’s recent resurgence.

Carrick’s decision to free Fernandes from deeper responsibilities has coincided with United’s rise into the Champions League places, reinforcing his value as both captain and attacking catalyst.

Declan Rice Remains Central to Arsenal’s Title Push

While Fernandes gathers momentum, Declan Rice remains Arsenal’s standout performer. The England international has anchored Mikel Arteta’s midfield with authority, combining defensive control with progressive passing and timely goals.

Rice has contributed four goals and three assists in league action while reaching the milestone of 300 Premier League appearances, underlining his consistency and durability. His influence has been pivotal in keeping Arsenal top of the table as the title race intensifies.
Source: Premier League

Arsenal’s defensive strength has further boosted Rice’s case. Gabriel Magalhães has delivered crucial goals, assists, and clean sheets, forming one of the league’s most reliable defensive units.

Lineker himself acknowledged Gabriel’s performances as worthy of recognition, highlighting Arsenal’s balance across the pitch rather than reliance on a single star.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland remains an inevitable presence in the discussion. Despite a brief dip, the Norwegian has already posted 20 league goals, keeping City within touching distance of the summit.

Lineker suggested Haaland’s scoring streaks could quickly thrust him back into pole position, reinforcing how open the Player of the Season race remains.
Source: Premier League

Arsenal Still Set the Benchmark

While Fernandes’ resurgence has caught attention, Arsenal’s title credentials continue to strengthen Rice’s candidacy. With defensive solidity, midfield control, and consistency across the season, the Gunners’ success could ultimately tip individual awards in their favour.

As the run-in approaches, Rice’s ability to dictate the biggest moments may prove decisive — regardless of late pushes from rivals at Old Trafford or the Etihad.

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