Fernandes Equals EPL Assist Record As Manchester United Edge Forest In Thriller

Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League record of 20 assists in a single season as Manchester United secured third place with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

Fernandes, recently crowned Football Writers’ Player of the Season, matched the long-standing assist record previously held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne when his cross was converted by Bryan Mbeumo for United’s third goal.

Mbeumo was also involved in the game’s most controversial moment after a handball in the build-up to Matheus Cunha’s goal went unpunished despite a VAR review.

With both teams having already achieved their main objectives for the season — Manchester United qualifying for the Champions League and Forest securing Premier League survival — the encounter turned into an entertaining, open contest.

United took the lead after just five minutes when Luke Shaw volleyed home.

Forest responded early in the second half as defender Morato headed in from Elliot Anderson’s cross to level the match.

United regained the lead moments later through Cunha after the ball deflected onto Mbeumo’s arm in the build-up. Referee Michael Salisbury upheld the goal despite being advised by VAR to review the incident.

Forest nearly equalised again through Morgan Gibbs-White, but goalkeeper Senne Lammens denied him with a quick intervention.

Fernandes’ historic assist arrived 14 minutes from time when Mbeumo turned in his low cross for his first goal since February.

Forest continued to fight back as Anderson and Gibbs-White combined again, with Gibbs-White scoring from close range after recently returning from a serious facial injury suffered in a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

Casemiro received a standing ovation from supporters during his final home appearance for Manchester United when he was substituted late in the match.

Fernandes almost broke the assist record outright in stoppage time, but Diogo Dalot struck the post from his pass.

Manchester United eventually held on for victory, continuing their impressive form since Michael Carrick took charge in January. Carrick is expected to sign a new two-year contract with the club in the coming days.