Bruno Fernandes breaks Premier League single-season assists record

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes broke the single-season assists record in Premier League history.

He registered his 21st assist with a perfectly delivered corner that Patrick Dorgu powered home off the underside of the crossbar to open the scoring against Brighton & Hove Albion.

That moment not only set the tone for a comfortable afternoon but also moved Fernandes past Premier League greats Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne for most assists in a single season.

United doubled their lead before half-time when Bryan Mbeumo finished off a flowing attacking move, started by Amad Diallo’s clever positioning and quick combination play inside the Brighton box.

Brighton, who began the day chasing a possible European spot, struggled to cope with United’s tempo and sharpness throughout the first half.

Fernandes then capped a remarkable individual and collective display early in the second half.

Initially flagged offside, his composed finish was eventually awarded after VAR intervention, sealing both the victory and a landmark moment in his career.

Beyond his goal contributions, Fernandes also created the most chances in the match and finished the season among Europe’s most productive playmakers.

His influence this season places him alongside some of the Premier League’s most creative midfielders in modern history.

Only a select group of players have consistently matched his level of chance creation and attacking output across a single campaign.

Among them are Kevin De Bruyne, whose vision and passing range at Manchester City have long set the benchmark for creativity; Thierry Henry, whose 20-assist season for Arsenal remains iconic until now; and Mesut Özil, who still holds one of the highest chance-creation records in Premier League history.

Fernandes’ consistency also draws comparisons with former United legends like Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney, both known for their longevity and attacking influence.

Other elite Premier League creators such as David Silva, Cesc Fàbregas, Frank Lampard, Dennis Bergkamp, and Steven Gerrard have all shaped seasons with moments of brilliance similar to Fernandes’ campaign, but few have combined goals, assists, and leadership in such volume from midfield.

Manchester United’s head coach Michael Carrick praised the team’s performance, describing it as “a joy to watch,” while highlighting their attacking fluidity and defensive discipline.