Bruno Fernandes equalled the record for most assists in a Premier League season during a controversial 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford. The Portuguese midfielder provided his 20th assist of the campaign, matching the all-time record jointly held by Thierry Henry (2002-03) and Kevin De Bruyne (2019-20).
Match Summary
Luke Shaw opened the scoring for Manchester United in the sixth minute, heading in from a corner. Nottingham Forest equalised through Morato in the 54th minute, but Matheus Cunha restored United's lead two minutes later in controversial fashion, with replays showing Bryan Mbeumo had handled the ball in the build-up. Despite VAR review, the goal stood.
Mbeumo then made amends by scoring United's third goal in the 76th minute, with Fernandes providing the assist to reach the 20-assist milestone. Morgan Gibbs-White pulled one back for Forest in the 79th minute with a stunning improvised finish, but United held on for the win.
Key Moments
- 6' - Luke Shaw scores for Manchester United
- 54' - Morato equalises for Nottingham Forest
- 56' - Matheus Cunha scores controversial goal
- 76' - Bryan Mbeumo makes it 3-1, assisted by Bruno Fernandes (20th assist)
- 79' - Morgan Gibbs-White scores for Forest
Bruno Fernandes' Record
Fernandes' 20th assist of the season came in the 76th minute when his cross found Mbeumo, who scored at the far post. The United captain said: "Everyone knew that the assist record was important. I'm very happy, but more than that, I'm happy for the win."
The victory secured third place for Manchester United, while Forest remain 16th in the table. Fernandes now needs one more assist in the final game of the season to become the outright record holder.
Controversial Decision
The game's major talking point was Cunha's goal, which came after Mbeumo controlled the ball with his arm. Referee Michael Salisbury initially awarded the goal, and after a lengthy VAR check, the decision was upheld, sparking debate among fans and pundits.
