Fernandes Equals Premier League Assist Record as United Beat Forest 3-2

Manchester United signed off at Old Trafford in style, beating Nottingham Forest 3-2 in an entertaining contest that also saw Bruno Fernandes equal the Premier League assists record. The United captain set up his 20th league goal of the season, matching the single-season mark held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, as United wrapped up a third-place finish.

Fernandes once again underlined his importance to United’s attack. He created eight chances in total and could have broken the assist record outright late on, but Diogo Dalot denied him by taking the ball and striking the post. Even so, it was another display that showed just how much of United’s creativity flows through the Portuguese midfielder.

The game started brightly for the hosts, who went ahead inside six minutes through a rare goal from Luke Shaw. Nottingham Forest responded well and should have equalised earlier than they did, with Morgan Gibbs-White and other visitors finding space in an open match. United’s Bryan Mbeumo, meanwhile, endured a frustrating afternoon in front of goal, missing several chances before finally converting late on.

Forest drew level when Morato headed in an excellent cross from Elliot Anderson, punishing United for more wastefulness. United then restored their lead through Matheus Cunha in highly controversial fashion. The ball appeared to strike Mbeumo’s arm before Cunha finished, and after a lengthy VAR review many expected the goal to be ruled out. Instead, the referee stood by the original decision and allowed it to stand, prompting strong criticism.

With 14 minutes left, Fernandes produced the record-equalling assist, crossing from the right for Mbeumo to divert home. The relief was obvious for the forward, who had missed so many earlier openings, and for Fernandes the moment took him level with two of the Premier League’s great creators. Forest refused to give in, however, and Morgan Gibbs-White soon made it 3-2 to keep the game alive deep into the closing stages.

The final minutes remained end to end, with Joshua Zirkzee denied by Matz Sels and Dalot hitting the woodwork. United ultimately saw the game out to give their supporters a positive finale at home and finish the season strongly in front of their own crowd.

Fernandes said after the match that collective success matters most to him, but he was proud to reach 20 assists and grateful that his contribution was being recognised. He also said he would be happy to play in the final league match if selected, though he was already satisfied with his record-breaking season in all but name.

Manager Michael Carrick praised his team’s strong finish and said Fernandes’ milestone was a special moment for everyone involved. Forest boss Vitor Pereira, by contrast, was left frustrated by the handball controversy, insisting the decisive goal should not have stood and describing the game as one decided by a clear refereeing error.