Manchester United edged Nottingham Forest 3-2 at Old Trafford, and midfield maestro Bruno Fernandes delivered the decisive pass that lifted him to 20 assists for the campaign. The cross in the 76th minute found Bryan Mbeumo, whose finish secured United’s third goal and matched the Premier League single‑season assist record. The win also moved United up to fifth place, keeping European hopes alive.

The achievement puts Fernandes level with Arsenal’s Thierry Henry (2002‑03) and Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne (2019‑20). Unlike those legends, ten of his assists have come from set‑piece situations, reflecting this season’s tactical shift toward dead‑ball creativity. Opponents now double‑mark him on corners, freeing space for United’s wingers.

United’s resurgence under Michael Carrick has coincided with Fernandes being named 2026 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association, edging out Arsenal’s Declan Rice by a narrow margin. United also chase a domestic cup.