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Bruno Fernandes Makes Premier League History: Manchester United Captain Breaks All-Time Assist Record
Editorial

Bruno Fernandes Makes Premier League History: Manchester United Captain Breaks All-Time Assist Record

By ATW Editorial·May 27, 2026

Bruno Fernandes has officially made Premier League history.

The Manchester United captain became the player with the most assists in a single Premier League season, recording an astonishing 21 assists during the 2025–26 campaign to set a new all-time league record.

With his 21st assist against Brighton on the final day of the season, Fernandes moved past former record holders Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, who had each registered 20 assists in a single campaign.

It was a historic moment — and one fittingly created by Fernandes in trademark fashion.

During Sunday’s clash at the Amex Stadium, the Portuguese playmaker delivered a perfectly floated corner into the box, where Patrick Dorgu rose highest to head home Manchester United’s opening goal. That assist confirmed Fernandes as the Premier League’s new single-season assist king.

He wasn’t done there.

Fernandes also found the net himself as United cruised to a 3–0 victory over Brighton, capping a dominant end to a remarkable season.

A Season for the History Books

The numbers speak for themselves.

Fernandes ends the 2025–26 league campaign with 21 assists and nine goals, while also collecting the Premier League Player of the Season award after consistently delivering for United throughout the year.

He also left Brighton with another major honour — the Premier League Playmaker of the Season award — finishing comfortably as the division’s top creator, nine assists ahead of his nearest challenger, Rayan Cherki.

But beyond the statistics, Fernandes’ influence has been felt in every aspect of Manchester United’s season.

Since joining from Sporting CP in January 2020 in a €65 million deal, the midfielder has become the heartbeat of the side. His leadership, creativity, intensity, and ability to deliver in decisive moments have made him indispensable at Old Trafford.

This season, however, elevated him into another category entirely.

Whether unlocking defences with precise through balls, creating from set pieces, or stepping up when pressure was highest, Fernandes became the driving force behind United’s attack. His chemistry with Bryan Mbeumo, Rasmus Højlund, Marcus Rashford, and Patrick Dorgu proved crucial in the club’s attacking success.

Fernandes Shares the Credit

Despite the historic milestone and widespread individual recognition, Fernandes remained focused on the collective effort behind the record.

Following his 20th assist against Nottingham Forest, the United captain made it clear that such achievements are impossible without teammates finishing the chances created for them.

“I’m very grateful to see their reaction more than mine because I wanted Bryan to celebrate his goal,” Fernandes said.

“I didn’t want to make it about myself because at the end of the day scoring the goal is the biggest thing in football.

“All credit to Bryan because if he doesn’t put it in the back of the net, my record is not there. These records only come if your teammates do the right things as you do.”

The comments reflected the character Fernandes has shown throughout his time in Manchester — ambitious and fiercely competitive, but always committed to the team above individual accolades.

What Comes Next?

Fernandes now adds the Premier League’s assist record to an already remarkable legacy in red.

Across all competitions, the Portuguese international has now registered 106 goals in 327 appearances for Manchester United, cementing himself as one of the club’s defining players of the modern era.

Attention will now quickly turn to the 2026 World Cup, where Fernandes is expected to play a central role for Portugal national football team.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are also looking ahead. With Fernandes’ current contract running until June 2027, reports suggest the club are preparing discussions over a lucrative extension as they aim to secure the future of their captain and creative leader.

One thing is already certain:

Bruno Fernandes hasn’t just had a brilliant season — he’s written his name into Premier League history forever.