The captain of Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, is silencing critics with an impressive tally of 16 assists this season, a feat that places him well ahead of any other player in the Premier League. Recently, Fernandes matched and surpassed David Beckham’s record, set in the 1999-2000 season, by providing two assists in the victory against Aston Villa. He now needs just five assists in the next eight games to claim the record for the Premier League, currently shared between Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. However, there are dissenting voices, such as Paul Parker, who described Fernandes as a “brainless liability,” questioning his ability as a “supposed playmaker.” What’s going on, Paul? Meanwhile, we assess Fernandes quite differently.
Below, we highlight his assists during this remarkable season, from simple touches to moments of pure brilliance:
**16) Crystal Palace (away)**
Fernandes initiates a seemingly simple play, passing a set piece to Mason Mount, who with a powerful shot overcomes a disorganized defense. A basic execution, but was Fernandes aware of the vulnerability of the Palace defense beforehand?
**15) Bournemouth (home)**
In a sequence of three corners, Fernandes delivers a cross to Casemiro, who heads the ball towards goal. The goal is made easier by a mistake from goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, but Fernandes’ vision deserves recognition.
**14) Nottingham Forest (away)**
Once again a delivery similar to that against Bournemouth, but this time in a more complicated scenario, where the pressure from the fans makes all the difference.
**13) Fulham (home)**
In a difficult position, Fernandes takes a lateral free kick that allows Casemiro to score, demonstrating that sometimes simplicity is key.
**12) Newcastle (away)**
Once again, a free kick near the opponent’s area is exploited by Fernandes, who puts the ball on Casemiro’s path, who redeems himself after a penalty he committed.
**11) Aston Villa (home)**
Another corner, another goal for Casemiro, with Fernandes showcasing his crossing ability in critical moments.
**10) Tottenham Hotspur (away)**
A crucial assist in added time, where Fernandes sets up Matthijs De Ligt, securing a draw that could have changed the fortunes of both clubs.
**9) Arsenal (away)**
A brilliant goal from Patrick Dorgu is preceded by a masterful play from Fernandes, who orchestrates the move from the start.
**8) Crystal Palace (away)**
In this free kick, Fernandes innovates by opting for a quick play instead of the traditional cross, resulting in a goal for Joshua Zirkzee.
**7) Wolves (away)**
Fernandes demonstrates vision by finding Mount with a masterful pass, standing out as a formidable playmaker.
**6) Liverpool (away)**
Here, the captain waits two months to provide an assist. But it was worth it, as his perfect pass allows Harry Maguire to score the winning goal at Anfield.
**5) Crystal Palace (home)**
As he approaches Beckham’s record, Fernandes delivers a magnificent cross, placing the ball perfectly for Sesko.
**4) Burnley (away)**
With the change of manager, Fernandes is finally utilized in an advanced position, where he slips a perfect pass that results in a goal.
**3) Aston Villa (home)**
After a draw, Fernandes responds quickly, delivering a decisive pass that puts Matheus Cunha in front of goal.
**2) Manchester City (home)**
The play is not just about the pass itself, but about how Fernandes deceived the City defense, creating the perfect opportunity for the shot.
**1) Fulham (home)**
His best assist of the season. After United conceded a late goal, Fernandes reacts quickly, showing calm and vision to secure a dramatic victory.
With an extraordinary performance and assists that defy logic, Bruno Fernandes is proving to be one of the best playmakers in the world, regardless of the criticism. His ability to turn plays into goals is a testament to his undeniable talent and importance to Manchester United.
Discover more from Apito Final
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
