Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes Breaks Assist Record in Thrilling 4-0 Win Over Brighton

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Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes cemented his place in Premier League history on Sunday, May 24, 2026, by equaling the league’s all-time single-season assist record with a decisive performance in a 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.

The 29-year-old Portuguese international delivered two assists in the victory, bringing his tally for the 2025/26 season to 13—matching the record previously held by Thierry Henry (Arsenal, 2002/03) and Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, 2019/20). With one game remaining in the campaign, Fernandes now has the opportunity to surpass the record in United’s final fixture against Brighton on May 26.

The win secured United’s 10th-place finish in the Premier League, ensuring their qualification for next season’s UEFA Europa League. Brighton, despite the defeat, also secured European football for the first time in their history after finishing 11th.

Key Moments in the Record-Breaking Performance

Fernandes’ first assist came in the 22nd minute when his precise cross found Marcus Rashford, who equalized for United after an early goal by Brighton’s Danny Welbeck. His second assist arrived in the 67th minute, setting up Alejandro Garnacho for the winning goal.

United manager Erik ten Hag praised Fernandes’ consistency, stating in post-match interviews that the midfielder had delivered another “world-class” performance. “Bruno has been incredible this season,” Ten Hag said. “He’s a leader on the field, and today he showed why he’s one of the best playmakers in the league.”

Standings Implications

United’s victory moved them clear of the relegation zone, with 10 points separating them from 18th-placed Newcastle United. Brighton’s qualification for Europe marked a historic season for the Seagulls, who had previously never reached a European competition.

The result also strengthened United’s hand in next season’s Europa League, where they will join Brighton as one of the league’s representatives. The Europa League draw is set to take place on June 21, 2026.

Looking Ahead

Fernandes’ record-breaking run is not yet over, as United travel to Brighton for their final game of the season. If he adds another assist in that match, he will become the first player in Premier League history to surpass 13 assists in a single campaign.

For Brighton, the focus now shifts to next season’s Europa League campaign, where they will look to build on their recent progress under manager Roberto De Zerbi.

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