Already confirmed for the upcoming Champions League campaign, Manchester United solidified their 3rd position in the Premier League standings, delivering another attacking masterclass at Old Trafford this Sunday with a 3-2 triumph over Nottingham Forest on matchday 37.
Manchester United continued their impressive end-of-season form. Facing a Nottingham Forest side already safe from relegation but still reeling from their Europa League semi-final exit against Aston Villa (1-0, 0-4), the Red Devils quickly took control thanks to Luke Shaw.
The England international, who hadn’t scored in nearly three years, broke the deadlock in the 4th minute with a magnificent low half-volley from the edge of the box. Dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Michael Carrick’s squad pressed for a second goal before halftime, despite several golden chances falling to Bryan Mbeumo.
However, Nottingham managed to pull level against the run of play shortly after the break. From a short corner routine, Morato capitalized on lax marking to head home in the 53rd minute. Yet, Manchester United responded almost immediately following a highly contentious sequence. After a handball by Mbeumo in the box went unpunished following a lengthy VAR review, Cunha promptly restored the Mancunians’ lead in the 55th minute.
Bruno Fernandes equals Henry and De Bruyne
Despite being active but often wayward, Mbeumo finally found his reward in the 76th minute, converting a powerful cross from Bruno Fernandes. This marked the Portuguese midfielder’s 20th assist of the season, equalling the historic Premier League record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Nottingham kept the tension high with a goal from Gibbs-White just two minutes later (78th minute), but United held onto their advantage until the final whistle in a truly exhilarating match.
Bruno Fernandes will have one more match to attempt to break the single-season assist record when the Mancunians travel to Brighton next Sunday (5 PM). Nottingham, meanwhile, will aim for a home victory against Bournemouth, who are surprisingly battling for a Champions League spot.
