Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assists record with his twentieth of the season as Manchester United secured third place with a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford. The Portuguese midfielder now shares the benchmark with Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, with one fixture remaining to potentially claim the outright record.
Luke Shaw opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a well-struck finish, but Forest responded when Morato headed in an inviting cross from Elliot Anderson to level proceedings shortly after half-time. United's second goal proved hugely contentious when referee Michael Salisbury allowed Bryan Mbeumo's strike to stand despite clear handball involvement in the build-up—a decision that drew comparisons to Benjamin Sesko's controversial handball in the recent Liverpool match.
Bruno's Record-Breaking Performance
Mbeumo atoned for his earlier miss when he converted from close range after receiving another inch-perfect delivery from Bruno, who orchestrated United's attacking play with characteristic precision. The midfielder's assist tally now sits at twenty, with the opportunity to break the record outright in the final game of the season. Forest pulled one back through Morgan Gibbs-White, but despite sustained late pressure, the hosts held firm to secure the three points.
Anderson impressed throughout for the visitors with his tireless running and creative contributions, whilst Diogo Dalot's late chance struck the post in a final twist to an eventful afternoon. Bruno's performance underlined why he remains among the elite playmakers in European football, combining defensive discipline with offensive brilliance to unlock Forest's defence repeatedly.
United's third-place finish now secured, attention turns to the season finale where Bruno has the chance to etch his name alone at the top of the Premier League assists chart.
