Bruno Fernandes’ pursuit of the Premier League assist record has been one of the biggest stories of the season. But here’s the thing. That might not even be his most impressive target.
The record held by Thierry Henry and matched by Kevin De Bruyne hasn’t been beaten for 23 years. After Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Brentford, it’s looking seriously under threat.
Fernandes teed up Benjamin Sesko for his 19th Premier League assist of the campaign. That’s ONE off equalling the record, with four games still to play.
Given the form he’s in, you’d be mad to bet against him getting at least two more and setting a new, uncatchable benchmark.
But Bruno isn’t just looking at Henry.
THE EUROPEAN RECORD THAT WOULD PUT HIM ALONGSIDE MESSI
Let’s zoom out for a second. The Premier League record is one thing. But the all time single season assist record across Europe’s top five leagues? That’s a different beast entirely.
Here’s where things stand right now:
. Thomas Muller 21
. Lionel Messi 21
. Thierry Henry 20
. Kevin De Bruyne 20
. Bruno Fernandes 19
Three more assists. That’s all he needs to break it.
Think about that for a second. Bruno Fernandes, three assists away from beating a record held by Lionel Messi. Actual Lionel Messi.
And here’s the killer detail. He’s missed three games through injury this season. Three. If he’d played those, there’s every chance the record would already be in the bag.
PUT SOME RESPECT ON HIS NAME
Fernandes is now firmly in the conversation for PFA Player of the Year. Rightly so. United are the third best club in the league and he’s been the driving force behind it.
With a World Cup to play for Portugal this summer, there’s even whispers of Ballon d’Or chatter. Not crazy. Not anymore.
His assist numbers are actually still on the low end compared to the sheer volume of chances he’s been creating. That’s the scary part. He could be even further ahead.
WHERE DOES HE SIT IN UNITED’S ALL TIME LIST?
Let’s not forget what he’s doing at Old Trafford either. Fernandes is climbing the club’s all time assist rankings at a rate of knots.
Here’s where he currently stands:
. Ryan Giggs 273
. Wayne Rooney 143
. David Beckham 122
. Bruno Fernandes 106
. Paul Scholes 83
That’s the company he’s keeping. Giggs. Rooney. Beckham. Scholes.
And he’s not done yet. Not even close.
If he stays this summer and all signs suggest he will and if he guides United to a Premier League title? He won’t just be a legend. He’ll be an immortal.
THE FINAL FOUR GAMES
Four matches left. One to equal Henry. Three to break Messi’s European record.
Bruno Fernandes has never been one to shrink from a challenge. And honestly? Would you bet against him?
The record books are trembling. And Bruno’s got his pen out.
