The Manchester United squad celebrated securing their third-place finish in the Premier League by enjoying a team meal at an upscale Greek restaurant in the heart of the city on Sunday night.
Match Summary
Earlier that day, Michael Carrick's side edged an entertaining five-goal thriller against Nottingham Forest in their final home game of the season at Old Trafford. Bruno Fernandes made headlines by equalling the Premier League assists record held by legends Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry, setting up Bryan Mbeumo for United's third goal. Luke Shaw and Matheus Cunha had netted the hosts' first two goals of the afternoon.
Celebratory Dinner
The United skipper was seen smiling hours later as he entered Fenix Bar and Restaurant in Manchester alongside his wife Ana Pinho to celebrate the achievement with teammates and their loved ones. The squad enjoyed a swanky Mediterranean meal at the Greek food hotspot known for its energetic vibes, including traditional plate-smashing during evening events.
However, one major absentee was Casemiro, who had just bid an emotional farewell to the Old Trafford faithful earlier that day. Despite being serenaded by fans from kick-off to the final whistle, the Brazilian midfielder did not attend the dinner. He had expressed his gratitude to supporters, saying, 'Thank you to everyone: the best thing with this club is you.' Casemiro has one final game left at Brighton next week.
Luke Shaw, who scored his first club goal in over three years, attended with partner Anouska Santos. Matheus Cunha and his wife Gabriela Nogueira da Cunha were also present, as were Lisandro Martinez and partner Muri Lopez. Summer signings Senne Lammens and Benjamin Sesko opted for more casual attire. Manager Michael Carrick, soon to be announced as permanent head coach, attended in a sleek all-black suit, along with backroom staff member Jonny Evans.
Awards Night Cancelled
The dinner is the only end-of-season event for this United team. Confidential revealed earlier this month that club bosses decided not to hold an end-of-season player awards night for the third consecutive year. This decision comes despite Carrick salvaging a season that seemed doomed under Ruben Amorim by securing Champions League qualification for the first time in three years. The club cancelled the gala event in 2024 after finishing eighth, and again last year when they slumped to 15th and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is in contention for the Premier League Player of the Year award after closing in on the single-season assist record of 20. However, personal achievements among the men's and women's teams will be honoured in a private setting at Carrington later this month. Sources indicate the move away from gala awards nights is not a reflection on the season but a shift in tradition, aligning with Carrick's assertion that a club of United's stature should not celebrate a top-five finish.
