Bruno Fernandes has etched his name into Premier League history after becoming the single-season assist record-holder.
It was a record that had lasted 23 years, set by Thierry Henry and matched by Kevin De Bruyne in 2020.
Fernandes’ Magic on the Pitch
Fernandes is like a magician on the pitch. Having watched him up close all season, he has produced moments that usually only belong to the imagination.
A personal favourite was his assist for Benjamin Sesko’s winner against Fulham. He finds himself on the right-hand side in the 94th minute of the game, turns Calvin Bassey and, with the ball still rolling ahead of him, whips it first time into the box.
If he puts the ball in front of Sesko, Joachim Andersen intercepts it. However, the placement of the ball, while Fernandes is falling as Bassey closes him down, is inch-perfect on Sesko’s back foot, which allows him a touch and finish. Like magic.
Some may point to the number of set-pieces on Fernandes’ way to writing a new chapter, but I would invite anyone who doubts his quality to re-watch some of the moments of the season.
Key Assists This Season
A first-time volleyed cross to set up Harry Maguire’s winner at Anfield – for Man Utd’s first win there in almost a decade – or his assist to set up Bryan Mbeumo against Manchester City in Michael Carrick’s first game in charge, where the great Henry dubbed Fernandes ‘Braino-Fernandes’ are just two examples. But I could go on.
Impact of Coaching Changes
It would have been somewhat understandable if Fernandes’ form had dipped halfway through the season when the club sacked Ruben Amorim in January. Fernandes shared a close relationship with Amorim and his staff, and he undoubtedly felt the impact of their departures.
Fernandes was injured when Amorim left the club and by the time he returned, United were close to appointing Carrick until the end of the season. Carrick was a man who Fernandes had previously spoken highly.
But I will always remember it now with a bit of irony because for as long as his new record lasts, at least, we will talk about Bruno… the same Bruno Fernandes who is the Football Writer’s Association and Premier League Player of the season.