Bruno Fernandes may already have his dream midfield partner for next season, and it won't cost Manchester United a penny in transfer fees. The Portuguese playmaker could surpass his own Premier League assists record with the help of Kobbie Mainoo, a young talent already at the club.
Record-breaking season for Fernandes
The Manchester United captain etched his name into the history books on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign against Brighton, claiming a record-breaking 21st league assist. Fernandes' corner was headed home by Patrick Dorgu in the 33rd minute to hand Michael Carrick's side the lead. The moment clearly meant far more than a routine goal to the United squad, who swarmed their skipper in celebration, having previously been level with Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne on a record 20 assists.
Fernandes' landmark achievement rounded off a remarkable personal campaign, during which he also played a pivotal role in securing Champions League qualification. His outstanding performances earned him both the Premier League Player of the Season and FWA Footballer of the Year awards.
Mainoo's impact on Fernandes' form
Remarkably, there is every reason to believe the 31-year-old can reach even greater heights next term. Fernandes was at his scintillating best when partnered with young midfielder Mainoo, who was sidelined for much of the season under Ruben Amorim. Amorim inexplicably overlooked the Englishman throughout his Old Trafford reign, but Mainoo flourished under interim manager Carrick from January onwards.
With Mainoo alongside him, Fernandes racked up a staggering 17 assists. He remarkably registered 12 assists in 16 matches when Mainoo featured in the starting XI, demonstrating just how productive the partnership could prove for United throughout a complete campaign, despite anticipated midfield reinforcements arriving this summer.
Statistical evidence of the partnership
Fernandes' creative output plummeted when Mainoo was absent from the side, dropping to a mere four assists. This further illustrates that Fernandes performs at his peak when operating alongside the deeper-lying Mainoo, who had previously been incorrectly deployed as a No.10 by Amorim.
The 21-year-old is anticipated to feature prominently once more during the next campaign following Carrick's permanent appointment. Admittedly, roughly half of Fernandes' goals in the division came from set pieces. Nonetheless, should the pair start all 38 fixtures together next season, the Portugal international is on course to eclipse even 21 assists.
Mainoo's consistent involvement will prove vital if Fernandes harbours any ambition of surpassing the record he established just last month in the coming season.
