Bruno Fernandes matched the Premier League’s single-season assist record as Manchester United sealed third place with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday.
The Portuguese midfielder, who rejected offers from Saudi Arabia last summer, has enjoyed an outstanding campaign for United, helping the club secure a return to the Champions League while also winning the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award.
Fernandes reached another milestone during the thrilling clash at Old Trafford when he provided the assist for Bryan Mbeumo’s goal, taking his tally to 20 assists for the season — equalling the Premier League record previously held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry.
It was also an emotional final home game of the campaign for United supporters, with celebrations surrounding the decision of Michael Carrick to remain head coach, while veteran midfielder Casemiro made his final appearance at Old Trafford.
United opened the scoring in the fifth minute through Luke Shaw, who netted his first goal since January 2023 after Forest failed to properly clear the ball.
Forest responded early in the second half when Morato headed home from an excellent cross delivered by Elliot Anderson.
The hosts regained the lead almost immediately as Matheus Cunha found the net after a controversial build-up involving a possible handball by Mbeumo. Despite protests from Forest players and a lengthy VAR review, referee Michael Salisbury allowed the goal to stand.
Mbeumo later added another for United after connecting with Fernandes’ record-equalling assist, before Morgan Gibbs-White scored a late superb effort for Forest as the visitors pushed for an equaliser until the final whistle.
