Manchester United legend Gary Neville believes Bruno Fernandes is the true number seven at the club.

The Red Devils defeated Nottingham Forest by 3-2 at Old Trafford yesterday, with Fernandes picking up his 20th assist of the season.

Neville said after the game on Sky Sports that Fernandes embodies everything traditionally associated with a Man United number seven.

He said: “I actually wish he were wearing the number seven shirt. I think he’s actually someone who is worthy of wearing that number shirt.

“You think of Cantona, Robson, George Best, David Beckham and the great players that have worn that shirt.

“He has got number eight on him, I’m not asking him to switch, but he feels that he’s got that presence, those shoulders up, that chest out.

“And yeah, he deserves everything that he gets.”

Neville is absolutely right about Fernandes

Mason Mount is currently the player wearing United’s prestigious number seven shirt.

Has he truly done enough to justify the responsibility and expectation attached to that legendary jersey? No.

Many supporters were stunned when INEOS handed Mount the shirt previously worn by Cristiano Ronaldo.

In truth, very few players in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era have come close to truly living up to the aura of that number.

Edinson Cavani enjoyed a respectable spell, but the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Memphis Depay and Angel Di Maria all endured disappointing and forgettable periods at Old Trafford.

As Neville highlighted, the number seven shirt was once worn by legendary figures such as Eric Cantona, David Beckham and George Best.

Fernandes may not yet belong in that untouchable category of all-time United icons, but he has unquestionably been the club’s best player during the turbulent years following Ferguson’s departure.

The Portuguese playmaker has been nothing short of sensational for United.
His performances, leadership, durability and loyalty to the club have never been in doubt.

If there is one player in the current squad who genuinely deserves to wear the number seven shirt, it is Fernandes.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United have suffered a big blow ahead of their final Premier League game of the season.

According to The Sun, Benjamin Sesko will not be available for the trip to Brighton & Hove Albion next Sunday.

Sesko aggravated his shin injury during the 3-2 win over Liverpool and missed the clashes against Sunderland and Nottingham Forest.

The 22-year-old had already been managing discomfort in his shin for several weeks before suffering another painful setback following a heavy challenge from Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate.

With Slovenia failing to qualify for the World Cup this summer, Sesko will now focus entirely on recovering in time for pre-season.

Sesko has enjoyed a superb debut campaign in Manchester, netting 11 goals and providing one assist in the Premier League.

Even more remarkably, he has managed those numbers despite featuring in only 30 league matches and starting just 17 of them.

United invested heavily in Sesko last summer, splashing an initial £65 million fee to lure him away from RB Leipzig.

The young forward initially faced fierce criticism from pundits after failing to score during the opening weeks of the campaign.

However, Sesko responded in emphatic fashion by showcasing his ruthless finishing ability throughout 2026.

Some sections of the media may still argue that his season has fallen below expectations, but they are blind to the importance and timing of his goals.

The Old Trafford faithful will now hope Sesko can return fully refreshed for pre-season and finally break the 20-goal barrier next campaign.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United celebrated a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest in their final home game of the Premier League season yesterday.

The Red Devils made the perfect start against the Tricky Trees as Luke Shaw opened the scoring after just four minutes on the clock.

Forest equalised early in the second half, but Matheus Cunha soon made it 2-1 after an extended VAR review for a handball on Bryan Mbeumo.

Mbeumo squandered a huge scoring chance soon after but eventually scored United’s third.

Forest made the game interesting with a second goal to make it 3-2, but United managed to hold on for a winning end to the season at Old Trafford.

Bruno Fernandes earned plenty of plaudits after his 20th assist of the league campaign, a competition record alongside Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

However, the main focus was on midfielder Casemiro, who made his final home appearance for the Red Devils ahead of his summer free transfer exit.

The 34-year-old thanked the club’s supporters with an Instagram post after the match.

There were several high-profile comments, including one from club favourite Rio Ferdinand, who described him as a ‘legend’.

Here is a screenshot

Casemiro has had a fabulous final season with United, scoring nine goals and providing two assists. His form has been brilliant since the confirmation of his summer departure.

The experienced ace has registered five goals and an assist in that time, and he has also been brilliant defensively, helping the club qualify for the Champions League after two seasons.

Against Forest, he was not at his vintage best, which was acceptable, given the occasion. He still completed 89 percent of his passes and 100 percent of his long balls (6/6).

He also won four duels against the Tricky Trees. United have one more match left in the campaign at Brighton & Hove Albion. Casemiro will no doubt make the starting XI.

The former Real Madrid man is already enjoying his best-ever scoring season. He will have his sights on bagging his 10th goal of the season before parting ways with United.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .

Manchester United and Nottingham Forest played out a thrilling game at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

The hosts came out on top with a 3-2 victory, helping them secure a third-placed finish in the league.

Bruno Fernandes stole the spotlight (yet again) by picking up another assist. However, this assist was anything but “another” as it helped him equal the record of the most assists in a single Premier League season.

One player who relentlessly battled for Forest and almost dragged his side to a valuable point was Elliot Anderson.

The England international has rapidly emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in European football.

A blockbuster summer transfer now feels increasingly inevitable, with several reports suggesting Manchester City are currently leading the race for his signature.

United are also believed to be seriously interested in Anderson, and INEOS could hardly have asked for a more convincing audition at Old Trafford.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his senior leadership team were all in attendance to witness exactly why the midfielder is attracting so much admiration across Europe.

The 23-year-old was directly involved in both Forest goals, finishing the afternoon with two superb assists.

His first contribution was a magnificent delivery from the right flank that allowed Morato to level the score.

He then produced an intelligent pass into Morgan Gibbs-White, whose brilliant finish set up a nervy finale at Old Trafford.

Anderson, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes could form a dream midfield for United.

However, Nottingham Forest may demand a fee of up to £120 million to sanction his exit.

The biggest question for INEOS is whether Anderson is truly worth such a massive investment.

How much money would remain for a second midfielder, a left-back and another forward if United commit such an enormous fee to Anderson?

Those are huge decisions facing the United hierarchy, and they may need to move quickly before City make further progress in bringing the midfielder to the Etihad Stadium.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United secured a 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest in their final home game of the Premier League season.

The Red Devils played out an entertaining match at Old Trafford earlier today, and there were several standout performers.

Luke Shaw bagged his first goal in over three years to open the scoring. Bruno Fernandes was once more brilliant from the number 10 position.

The Portuguese sensation registered his 20th assist of the Premier League campaign, thereby matching the competition record.

He could have easily surpassed the feat, too. Byran Mbeumo, who scored the winner, squandered a clear-cut opportunity from Fernandes’ through ball.

Patrick Dorgu and Joshua Zirkzee also failed to find the back of the net from Fernandes’ passes.

Elsewhere, Amad Diallo was once again unconvincing in the final third. Barring one pass to Mbeumo, he lacked the cutting edge with his decision-making.

The Ivory Coast international won just four out of 12 duels contested from the right wing, while completing just one out of five dribbles.

He was also guilty of losing possession on eight occasions and committed three fouls in 90 minutes.

The £37 million signing managed an impressive 21 goal contributions from 43 appearances last term.

However, he has been nowhere near as good in the current season, with just two goals and three assists from 32 appearances to date.

Amad has not had a goal involvement since the turn of the year, and we believe he should not be starting regularly for United in the future.

The 23-year-old can be a good squad player, but the Red Devils should not go into the 2026/27 season with him as a consistent starter, given his lack of output.

Provided everyone’s fit, Bryan Mbeumo should start as United’s first-choice right winger next term with Benjamin Sesko leading the line.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .

Manchester United took three points against Nottingham Forest to seal a third-place finish in the Premier League this season.

Luke Shaw, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo all found the back of the net as United battled to a thrilling 3-2 victory at Old Trafford.

However, the player who completely stole the spotlight with another masterclass performance was United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Fernandes registered the 20th assist of his Premier League campaign, equalling the all-time record for most assists in a single season.

The Portuguese magnifico talked to Sky Sports after the game.

He said: “Everyone knew it was important that I could get another assist at least. They were trying everything they could to finish off my passes.

“There were probably moments where I should have passed instead of shoot. I am very happy for the assists, but more so for the win and to end the season on a high.”

Fernandes picked up a perfect 10 rating in our post-match analysis after delivering another breathtaking performance capped by his historic assist.

The United skipper was simply unplayable throughout the contest, particularly in the second half when Forest pushed bodies forward in search of an equaliser.

He created eight chances in 90 minutes, joint-most by any player in any Premier League game this season.

The 31-year-old officially finished the game with just one assist, but realistically he deserved to walk away with at least five.

His outrageous cross-field pass to Patrick Dorgu should have resulted in a goal, only for the Dane to fire straight at the goalkeeper.

Mbeumo was also guilty of squandering two glorious opportunities before eventually taking his third chance.

Amad Diallo and Joshua Zirkzee also failed to convert when Fernandes put the goal on their plate.

It was yet another dazzling display from arguably the most creative midfielder in Europe right now, further strengthening his case to win the PFA Player of the Year award.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United edged past Nottingham Forest in a thrilling 3-2 victory at Old Trafford in their final Premier League home game of the season.

United head coach Michael Carrick made three changes to his side from last weekend.

All eyes were firmly fixed on Casemiro, who returned to the starting XI for his emotional final Old Trafford appearance in a United shirt.

It took United just five minutes to break the deadlock as Luke Shaw finally ended his long wait for a goal with his first strike since January 2023.

Morato restored parity after meeting an exquisite delivery from Elliot Anderson, but Matheus Cunha responded instantly to fire United back in front less than a minute later.

Bryan Mbeumo endured a frustrating afternoon in front of goal after wasting three huge opportunities before finally finding the net.

The goal carried historic significance as it allowed Bruno Fernandes to equal the all-time Premier League record for most assists in a single campaign.

Morgan Gibbs-White set up a nervy finale with a clever finish to make it 3-2, but United held firm to secure victory and officially seal a third-place finish in the league table.

Player Ratings

Senne Lammens – 8/10

Reacted brilliantly off his line to deny Morgan Gibbs-White a certain goal in both halves. The Belgian goalkeeper was left helpless for Forest’s two strikes.

Diogo Dalot – 7/10

Carried the ball forward tirelessly and provided energy down the flank, but his positioning could have been better on several occasions. Hit the post in the stoppage time.

Harry Maguire – 6/10

Produced a crucial intervention with a perfectly timed outstretched leg to bail Mbeumo out and stop a dangerous counter-attack.

Lisandro Martinez – 7/10

Produced a sharp dribble to beat his marker and create a half-chance for Bruno Fernandes. Also delivered a marvellous defensive display against Morgan Gibbs-White throughout the contest.

Luke Shaw – 9/10

Drilled his shot low and hard into the corner to score his first goal in over three years.

Kobbie Mainoo – 6/10

Another fine evening for Mainoo who is set for a big 2026-27 campaign.

Casemiro – 6/10

Final appearance at Old Trafford and picked up a booking just before his substitution. Came to close to scoring his 10th goal.

Bruno Fernandes – 10/10

What can we say about the best player in the Premier League? He could have had 5 assists if players around him supported him.

Delivered a sensational whipped cross from the right flank to create history, assisting Mbeumo in the 75th minute.

Amad Diallo – 5/10

Made an absolutely atrocious cutback that surrendered possession despite three United players waiting inside the box. He then followed it up with a header he never looked fully in control of.

Matheus Cunha – 9/10

Produced a superb through ball for Bryan Mbeumo and deserved an assist for the quality of the pass. Took his own goal brilliantly to make it 2-1 with complete composure.

He also played a key role in United’s third goal. The Brazilian ran the show at Old Trafford.

Bryan Mbeumo – 7/10

Struck the post after brilliantly rounding the goalkeeper before missing a sitter from six yards early in the second half.

He then wasted another glorious opportunity created by Bruno Fernandes. However, the forward eventually redeemed himself by finding the net to finally end his goal drought.

Substitutes

Mason Mount – 7/10

Lively and creative in central midfield role.

Patrick Dorgu – 5/10

Poor passes on two occasions to waste counter-attacking opportunities.

Joshua Zirkzee – 6/10

He should have scored twice in his 10-minute cameo.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United are now set to receive a significant financial boost ahead of the summer transfer window.

Rasmus Hojlund is currently spending the season on loan at Napoli after enduring a difficult spell at Old Trafford.

The loan deal came with an obligation for the Italian outfit to sign him permanently for £38 million if they qualified for the UEFA Champions League.

Napoli booked their spot in the Champions League today by picking up a dominant 3-0 victory over Pisa.

According to The Athletic, Hojlund is now set to join Napoli in a permanent transfer this summer as per the agreement.

The 23-year-old has looked completely at home in Italy after two difficult seasons in the Premier League.

The striker has scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 31 league games this campaign.

That represents a major improvement on the disappointing tally of just four Premier League goals he managed last season.

Hojlund arrived in Manchester as an immensely talented but still highly unpolished striker, and the instability surrounding the club only made his development more difficult.

The Dane reportedly fought hard to remain at Old Trafford last summer, but the club hierarchy ultimately informed him that he was no longer part of their long-term plans.

There is still no doubt that Hojlund possesses enormous potential and has all the tools needed to build a successful career at the highest level.

For United, the priority now will be to use the incoming transfer fee wisely to strengthen the attack and bring in quality cover for Benjamin Sesko.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has unveiled his starting XI for today’s Premier League contest against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

This game marks the final home game of the 2025-26 season for Man United.

There are plenty of reasons for United fans to be excited, but special attention will be on Casemiro, who is expected to grace the Old Trafford pitch for the final time.

Carrick has made three changes to his side that played a 0-0 draw with Sunderland last time out.

Senne Lammens has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign and deservedly retains his place between the sticks.

Forest have been ruthless in the attacking third this season, meaning the Belgian goalkeeper could face another demanding afternoon in pursuit of a clean sheet.

Diogo Dalot returns to the starting XI in place of Noussair Mazraoui.

Luke Shaw is making his 37th league appearance of the campaign and now stands just one match away from completing a near-perfect season.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez retain their spots at the heart of defence. Martinez has a lot to prove after failing to justify his inclusion ahead of Ayden Heaven.

For one final time at Old Trafford, Casemiro will line up alongside Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, while Mason Mount is forced to settle for a place on the bench once again.

Bruno Fernandes will operate in his favoured number 10 role and is now just one assist away from equalling the all-time Premier League record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

Bryan Mbeumo returns to the XI, replacing Joshua Zirkzee in the number nine spot. Benjamin Sesko remains sidelined due to a shin injury.

Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha will operate on the wings.

Confirmed Man United line-up (4-2-3-1): Senne Lammens; Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw; Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro; Bruno Fernandes, Amad Diallo, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .

Manchester United host Nottingham Forest in today’s early Premier League kick-off at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have already secured a Champions League berth with a top-five league finish, but manager Michael Carrick will want to end the campaign on a high note.

United have 65 points from 36 matches, and hitting the 70-point mark could be the target with back-to-back wins. Ahead of the final home game, Carrick could make a few changes.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Line-up:

Senne Lammens has been ever-present between the sticks for United since his debut in October last year. The Belgium international will be eyeing his eighth clean sheet of the league season.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez should continue as the central defensive pairing. Luke Shaw has started every league game at left-back this term, and looks poised to extend the run.

There could be a change at right-back with Diogo Dalot replacing Noussair Mazraoui, who had a mixed outing at Sunderland. Chemsdine Talbi got the better of him with his direct running on occasions.

With Casemiro fully fit after a minor injury, the Brazilian is set to partner Kobbie Mainoo in the centre of the park. Mason Mount, who had a poor outing on Wearside, should drop to the bench.

Casemiro has been one of the league’s best scoring midfielders with nine goals. The 34-year-old will surely want to end his farewell United game at Old Trafford with another goal involvement.

Further forward, Amad Diallo could drop to the bench after another underwhelming display on the right wing. The £37 million signing has had a frustrating 2026 with no goals or assists at the club level.

Carrick made a surprise choice to field Joshua Zirkzee upfront against Sunderland. We anticipate something similar with Patrick Dorgu getting the nod on the right side of United’s attack.

Dorgu has been somewhat of a revelation as a winger. He has predominantly played from the left but had one of his best outings against Newcastle, starting from the right. The Dane should replace Amad.

Bruno Fernandes is an obvious starter in the number 10 position. The Portuguese is on 19 league assists, just one shy of the competition record held jointly by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

The club captain will be determined to match the feat but potentially break the record at Old Trafford.

Upfront, Carrick has a simple choice after Zirkzee’s dismal outing against the Black Cats. The Dutchman was barely influential, with 11 passes and lost possession nine times. He won just four out of 11 duels.

With Benjamin Sesko still nursing a shin injury, Bryan Mbeumo is set to feature as the makeshift number nine. The Cameroonian has not scored since February. He will be eyeing his 10th goal of the top-flight campaign.

How Man Utd could line up vs Nott Forest

Stats from Transfermarkt & Sofascore

Article written by Sri Aswin .