History Made: Bruno Fernandes Claims Outright Premier League Assist Record

BRIGHTON — On the final day of the 2025–26 Premier League season, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes didn’t just lead his team to a victory; he etched his name into the very history books of English football.

In a comprehensive 3–0 win over Brighton at the American Express Stadium, Fernandes delivered his 21st assist of the season, officially breaking the all-time record for the most assists in a single Premier League campaign.

A Record Shattered

Entering the final matchday, the record had been locked in a legendary tie for years, 20 assists, a benchmark shared by Arsenal icon Thierry Henry (2002–03) and Manchester City maestro Kevin De Bruyne (2019–20).

Fernandes needed just one moment of brilliance to claim the title outright. That moment arrived in the first half when he swung in a pinpoint corner that was met by the head of Patrick Dorgu, who crashed the ball home off the underside of the crossbar. As the ball hit the net, the record was his.

“To be mentioned in the same breath as Henry and De Bruyne is special, but to stand alone is something I never dreamed of when I came to this league,” Fernandes said after the match. “This isn’t just my record; it’s a reflection of the movement, the finishing, and the work of this entire squad.”

The Match: United Cruise to Finish Line

The record-breaking assist set the tone for a dominant afternoon for Michael Carrick’s side. United, having already secured a third-place finish, played with the freedom of a team that has found its rhythm at the perfect time.

• The Opener: Patrick Dorgu’s header from the Fernandes corner broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute.

• The Cushion: Bryan Mbeumo doubled the lead before halftime, tapping in from close range after a slick passing sequence involving the United front line.

• The Exclamation Point: Fernandes capped his afternoon with a goal of his own shortly after the break, firing home after a lengthy VAR review confirmed he was onside.