Bruno Fernandes claimed the outright Premier League assist record with his 21st of the season, then scored as Manchester United ended Brighton's Europa League hopes with a 3-0 victory on the final day.
Record-breaking performance
The United captain set up Patrick Dorgu's opener in the 33rd minute, moving clear of Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry's previous record. Bryan Mbeumo doubled the lead before half-time, and Fernandes added a third early in the second half after VAR overturned an offside decision.
Brighton needed only a point to secure a Europa League spot but slipped to eighth, behind Sunderland, and must settle for the Conference League next season.
Carrick's first match as permanent boss
Michael Carrick, appointed permanently on Friday, saw his side dominate from the outset. The former midfielder made three changes from the win over Nottingham Forest and watched his team take control in the latter stages of a quiet first half.
Fernandes' corner was headed home by Dorgu, then Mbeumo tapped in after a swift exchange between Amad Diallo and Mason Mount.
Brighton's disappointment
Fabian Hurzeler's side offered little after the break. Yankuba Minteh was introduced but hopes of a comeback were dashed within three minutes of the restart when Fernandes slotted home after a counter-attack.
Bart Verbruggen made saves to deny Dorgu and Diallo, but Brighton rarely threatened Senne Lammens' goal. Diego Gomez dragged wide and Solly March forced a save late on.
Despite the defeat, Brighton players and fans celebrated at full-time after securing European football for only the second time in the club's history.
