Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League record for most assists in a single season by providing his 20th assist in Manchester United's 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday, May 17, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The achievement matches the records set by Thierry Henry in 2002-03 and Kevin De Bruyne in 2019-20 [1, 2, 3, 5]. Fernandes has played a crucial role in United securing third place in the Premier League and qualifying for the Champions League next season [2, 3, 6, 7].
Fernandes has created 132 chances this season, the highest in the Premier League and a significant margin ahead of his nearest rivals [1]. He now holds 70 Premier League assists across seven seasons with Manchester United, surpassing David Beckham's club single-season record of 15 assists [8, 4]. Luke Shaw scored his first Premier League goal in over three years during the same match against Nottingham Forest [2, 3, 6, 7].
The game also featured a controversial goal awarded to Nottingham Forest's Matheus Cunha after an accidental handball by Bryan Mbeumo. Referee Michael Salisbury stood by his decision following a VAR review, calling the handball accidental [3, 5, 6, 7]. However, pundits including Micah Richards and Roy Keane disagreed, arguing the handball was clear and questioning the consistency of VAR decisions [3].
Fernandes, recently named the Football Writers' Association men's Footballer of the Year for 2026, said, "(My teammates) have 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. I got to 20 today, let's see we have one more game. It's the highest I've done in the Premier League so I am very happy with it." He added, "Everyone knew that (the assist record) was important. They were trying everything they could to score from my passes. I'm very happy, but more than that, I'm happy for the win. I want collective awards more than anything. But I'm grateful that people think I should be Player of the Season [2, 3]."
In an emotional moment, Casemiro received a standing ovation in his final appearance for Manchester United during the game [2, 6, 7]. Former Manchester United right-back Gary Neville described Fernandes' achievement as "something exceptional in Premier League football" and a "magical moment" [1].
Manchester United have one remaining Premier League fixture on May 24, 2026, against Brighton, where Fernandes could break the single-season assist record outright [1, 2, 4].
