Michael Carrick has stated that his future at Manchester United will be resolved in the next few days, following his team’s 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The win was highlighted by Bruno Fernandes equalling the Premier League record for assists in a single season.
Fernandes equals assist record
Bruno Fernandes set up Bryan Mbeumo for Manchester United’s third goal, marking his 20th league assist of the campaign. This achievement ties the Premier League record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. The assist proved crucial as United held on to secure third place in the standings.
Carrick addresses the crowd
After the match, Carrick addressed the Old Trafford crowd, expressing hope for more memorable moments ahead. Reports suggest the 44-year-old has reached a broad agreement on a new deal to remain in charge. Speaking after the game, Carrick said: “Over the coming days there’ll be clarity in the situation. Today what was important was the game and getting the right result, and about some individuals as well. Whatever news there is going to be, I’m sure you’ll get it in a few days.”
Match summary
Luke Shaw opened the scoring for United, but Morato equalised early in the second half. Matheus Cunha quickly restored United’s lead with a controversial goal, before Fernandes set up Mbeumo for a third. Morgan Gibbs-White pulled one back for Forest, but United held on for the win.
Carrick on Fernandes
Carrick praised Fernandes for handling the pressure of chasing the record. “I think he’s dealt with it really well. Watching from the sides you’re thinking ‘What’s going through his head? Is he looking for the pass? Is he looking to score? Is he second-guessing it?’ I think he coped with it fantastically well. It was a really nice moment for everybody and credit to him.”
Controversial goal and fan protest
During the match, a supporter near the directors box held up a sign towards minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, criticising his stance on immigration, before security removed it. Forest manager Vitor Pereira expressed frustration over the decision to allow Cunha’s goal, which appeared to involve a handball by Mbeumo. Despite a VAR review, referee Michael Salisbury upheld the goal.
Pereira said: “I’m very proud of my players because we got the points before the last two games. If the game was decided in this way and we needed the points to be safe, it would be a big, big problem!” He added that Salisbury explained the handball occurred after a touch on the body, but Pereira disagreed: “In my opinion, he touched the ball with his hand and the goal comes from the control. If not, they would not have had the chance to shoot and score.”
Pereira’s future
Despite speculation about another coaching change, Pereira, who has one year left on his contract, said: “We’re planning next season together. Of course this speculation is normal but I think we did good work together.” Reports suggest Forest may offer him a contract extension.
