Fernandes equals premier league assist record as Manchester United beat Nottingham Forest

Bruno Fernandes delivered another historic performance on Sunday as Manchester United secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford, with the Portuguese midfielder equaling the Premier League’s all-time single-season assist record.

Fernandes registered his 20th assist of the 2025–26 campaign during the thrilling encounter, drawing level with Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne for the highest number of assists recorded in a single Premier League season.

The Manchester United captain created the decisive goal in the 75th minute, delivering a low cross that was converted by Bryan Mbeumo to put the hosts 3-1 ahead.

United made a fast start to the match as Luke Shaw opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a well-taken volley after connecting with a cross inside the box.

Forest responded strongly after the break, leveling the match in the 52nd minute through defender Morato, who headed home from an Elliot Anderson delivery.

The game quickly swung back in United’s favor moments later when Matheus Cunha restored the lead. The goal survived a lengthy VAR review despite protests from the Forest bench over a possible handball in the buildup involving Mbeumo.

Fernandes then produced the defining moment of the match with his record-equalling assist for Mbeumo before Forest reduced the deficit late on through Morgan Gibbs-White.

Goalkeeper Senne Lammens made a crucial late save to deny Gibbs-White an equalizer and preserve all three points for the home side.

The result keeps Manchester United firmly in third place in the Premier League standings with one game remaining this season. Fernandes will now have the opportunity to break the assist record outright in United’s final league match against Brighton & Hove Albion next weekend.

The match also marked an emotional farewell appearance at Old Trafford for veteran Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who is expected to leave the club at the end of the season.

Addressing supporters after the match, Casemiro thanked the fans, players, and staff for their support during his time at the club, describing the supporters as “the best thing in this club.”