Bruno Fernandes hails 'important' milestone after equalling Premier League assist record with 20th of season in victory over Nottingham Forest
Published 17/05/2026 at 16:13 GMT+1
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Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record for a single season in Manchester United's exciting 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest.
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Fernandes notched his record-tying 20th assist of the season with 15 minutes to go at Old Trafford when his low cross from the right was steered home by Bryan Mbeumo.
The 31-year-old equals the record for the most assists in a single Premier League season, now level with Thierry Henry and Kevin de Bruyne.
And Fernandes has one game of this season still to be played - with United travelling to Brighton & Hove Albion on the final day of the season next Sunday - so still has a chance to break the record outright.
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When asked about whether he can move past Henry and De Bruyne into sole possession of the milestone figure, the midfielder told Sky Sports: "Let's see. I got to 20 today. We have one more game. The manager decides who will play the next game.
"I will be very happy to do it. But if I don't, I am already happy because it is the most assists I have got in the Premier League.
"I spoke about that [record], everybody knew it was important. They've been trying to score from my passes. I'm very happy for the assist and for the win and to finish the season on a high."
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Fernandes has enjoyed one of his best seasons since coming to United and was named the football writers' player of the season recently.
On the award, he said: "It's a privilege and a pleasure for me, knowing that your job is being recognised by many people, that I was player of the season. I am very grateful."
Although there was little to play for on Sunday, both teams produced an exciting encounter.
The home side took the lead after five minute through a low effort from Luke Shaw. But just eight minutes after half-time, Forest were level through a close-range header from Morato.
United were ahead again just two minutes later, in controversial fashion.
Mbeumo appeared to control a cross from Diogo Dalot between his upper arm and chest, before his shot deflected to Matheus Cunha who tucked the ball home.
The goal was given and although referee Michael Salisbury was sent to the monitor by the video assistant referee, Salisbury decided to confirm the goal.
Forest did halve the deficit 12 minutes later through an exquisite Morgan Gibbs-White finish, but the visitors were unable to find another goal.
It was a special day for Casemiro as he played his last home game for United, having already announced he will leave at the end of the season.
The Brazilian midfielder was substituted and received a standing ovation from the Old Trafford crowd as he made his way off the field for the final time.
Speaking on the pitch afterwards, Casemiro extended his thanks to all those who had supported him during his time at the club.
"Thank you to everyone, to the players, to the staff, to everyone, but the best thing in this club is you, the fans. Thank you," he said.
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United manager Michael Carrick also addressed the home fans on the pitch following the victory, with reports suggesting he is close to signing a two-year deal to remain in the position.
"A massive thank you for the season. It's unbelievable to see this place so full," Carrick said.
"We've had some big, big moments, big goals and big results in this place over the last few months. Hopefully there'll be a few more of them."
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