Bruno Fernandes Matches Premier League Assist Record as Manchester United Defeat Forest in Thrilling Encounter

Bruno Fernandes matched the Premier League’s single-season record of 20 assists as Manchester United clinched third place with a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest.

Recently named Football Writers’ Player of the Season, Fernandes joined Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne in the record books when his cross was converted by Bryan Mbeumo for United’s third goal.

Mbeumo was also at the center of controversy when his handball in the buildup to Matheus Cunha’s goal went unpunished, even after a VAR review.

Both teams had already reached their main objectives: United had secured a return to the Champions League, while Forest had guaranteed their survival just a week earlier.

With little at stake, the match was open and lively from the start. Luke Shaw put United ahead with a volley just five minutes in, and both sides squandered several chances before halftime. Forest equalized early in the second half, as Elliot Anderson’s cross was headed in by Morato at the back post.

United responded quickly, with Cunha finishing after the ball deflected from Mbeumo’s thigh onto his arm. In a rare move, referee Michael Salisbury allowed the goal to stand despite being sent to the monitor by VAR.

Forest nearly leveled again when Morgan Gibbs-White was denied by keeper Senne Lammens, but Fernandes’ record-tying assist came 14 minutes from time when Mbeumo finished off his driven cross for his first goal since February.

Forest continued to fight, and Anderson set up Gibbs-White—making his first appearance since a serious facial injury earlier this month—to finish into the bottom corner and reduce the deficit.

The match also marked an emotional farewell for Casemiro, who received a standing ovation from United fans as he was substituted off during his final home appearance.

Fernandes nearly claimed a record-breaking 21st assist when Diogo Dalot struck the post from his pass in stoppage time. Ultimately, United held firm to secure another win under Michael Carrick, who is expected to sign a new two-year contract to remain as manager at Old Trafford.