Manchester United supporters were quick to remind Jamie Carragher of his early-season predictions, which proved to be spectacularly off the mark.Needless to say, there’s not much love lost between the 48-year-old and the Red Devils’ supporters.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYIf his Liverpool past wasn’t enough, Carragher had also caused controversy with some of the remarks he made regarding MUFC players, including Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro.Jamie Carragher ridiculed for Man United 9th-place predictionIn recent days, Casemiro was asked about Carragher’s old retirement during an interview with Rio Ferdinand.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe Brazilian felt he had the last laugh after proving the Liverpool legend wrong thanks to a remarkable career turnaround. The midfielder has enjoyed his best campaign since joining Man Utd, but it will also be his last, as the two parties have decided to part ways at the end of the season.Nevertheless, the retirement advice wasn’t the only Carragher comment that aged poorly.The English pundit has been reminded of his pre-season predictions, when he backed his former employers Liverpool to successfully defend their title, and claimed Man Utd would finish in ninth place.“My top six this season will be Liverpool top of the league,” said the former England international last August. I go Arsenal second, City third, Chelsea fourth, Spurs fifth, Newcastle sixth.“Where’s Manchester United? I think United will finish ninth.” 🗣️ Jamie Carragher at the start of the season: “My top six this season will be Liverpool top of the league. “I go Arsenal second, City third, Chelsea fourth, Spurs fifth, Newcastle sixth. “Where’s Manchester United? I think United will finish NINTH”. This aged well, Jamie 😂 pic.twitter.com/mgaK2HdJ9r — centredevils. (@centredevils) May 18, 2026Man Utd proved Carragher wrong thanks to Michael Carrick’s mid-season revivalBased on the first half of the season, Carragher’s Man Utd prediction wasn’t terribly off the mark. When Ruben Amorim was sacked in January, the club was sixth in the Premier League table and appeared destined for a lower finish.Moreover, United had finished the previous campaign in a shocking 15th place, so a ninth-place finish wouldn’t have been shocking by any means.In fact, Chelsea, who invested heavily in the summer, currently sit 10th in the league, while Spurs are in a miserable 17th place.Nevertheless, Man Utd have been enjoying a splendid second half of the season under Michael Carrick, who steered the club back in the right direction.The Red Devils have now secured a third-place finish behind title-challengers Arsenal and Man City. Aston Villa will finish fourth after beating Liverpool, who will still have to hold off competition from Bournemouth to maintain fifth place and book their place in the Champions League.
Man Utd fans revel as Carragher’s woeful predictions return to haunt him
Rio Ferdinand shares insight into Carrick’s true feelings on bizarre constant criticism from Keane and Neville
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has shared what Michael Carrick may be thinking about the constant, bizarre criticism from Roy Keane and Gary Neville. Knives out Carrick has done a tremendous job since he was named as Ruben Amorim’s temporary replacement at the start of the year. The weekend’s 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest marked the 11th victory in 16 games under Carrick. Not only did he secure Champions League football for United with multiple games to spare, but United are also guaranteed to finish in third place in the Premier League table. Beyond the results, however, there has been a marked improvement in performances. In a short period, Carrick has introduced an attractive, front-footed brand of football that has swiftly endeared him to the supporters. Carrick is set to continue as United boss, with a two-year deal on the table. Last week, Fabrizio Romano confirmed as much, even giving his “here we go” catchphrase. Despite all the positivity that has come with Carrick, a handful of former players, most notably Keane, Neville and Paul Scholes, have repeatedly taken digs at him. The trio have argued that United should look beyond Carrick in favour of a world-class manager, although they’ve yet to definitively name who they want instead. Ironically, Keane once mentioned Newcastle’s Eddie Howe as a preferable option over Carrick. Following United’s defeat to Newcastle in March, Scholes sent tongues wagging with a sly jab at Carrick. Although he later walked back his comments, the incident still left a somewhat bitter aftertaste. Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Ferdinand insisted the flak from Neville and Keane in particular is unlikely to faze Carrick. Ferdinand remarks The six-time Premier League winner said, “I’ll tell you one thing, Michael Carrick will not give a s**t what Gary Neville or Roy Keane says.” “When he was a player, any comments, any negativity, good or bad comments, were like water off a duck’s back.” “He just brushed it aside, he knew what he was good at, knew what he wanted to do and would just carry on with it and I don’t think he’ll be any different as a manager.” Carrick and his players are next in action on Sunday when they go away to Brighton & Hove Albion in their final game of the season. Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Newcastle open to selling their “crown jewel” for a reduced fee, United ready to pounce – report
Manchester United secured an entertaining 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday, marking their final home Premier League game of the season. Michael Carrick will have been pleased with some of the attacking play on display, Lisandro Martinez’s return to form, and Bruno Fernandes equalling the league assist record. The soon-to-be-named permanent head coach will also be pondering what to do with Amad and Bryan Mbeumo, both of whom have struggled ever since he took charge. The performance of Elliot Anderson will also have caught his eye, serving as a reminder to the fans why INEOS rate him so highly, despite his price tag. United have moved on to Sandro Tonali The only problem is the Englishman seems to prefer a move to the Etihad over Old Trafford, and there is no point in crying over spilt milk. This is why the Red Devils have moved on to alternative targets like Sandro Tonali of Newcastle. Previous reports seemed to indicate the 20-time English league champions would be priced out of a move for the Italian maestro, with the Magpies set to demand as much as £100 million for their “crown jewel”. Coupled with the former AC Milan ace’s wages, it seemed unlikely that a move would fructify this summer, with a return to Serie A looking likely. Newcastle’s asking price for Sandro Tonali However, Corriere della Sera have a different take on the transfer. They claim that Newcastle will be forced to sell the Italy international due to PSR restrictions after having failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. A move back to Serie A looks unlikely, with United and Manchester City among the leading contenders for the 26-year-old. Interestingly, the report claims Eddie Howe’s team will be open to a sale for £87 million, which is a slight reduction from their previous asking price. “Sandro Tonali must be sacrificed in the transfer market due to restrictive Financial Fair Play regulations, which are forcing big-spending Newcastle to sell their crown jewel. United have great chance to win the race for Sandro Tonali “Following their failure to qualify for the Champions League, the Magpies are ready to entertain offers for the midfielder. “Having paid Milan €59 million for his services (as per their financial statements), the English club is now expecting offers in the region of €100 million. This figure is prohibitively high for Italian clubs. “Transfer fee aside, the former *Rossonero* commands an annual salary approaching €10 million. Manchester United or Manchester City appear to be the most likely destinations.” With City eyeing Anderson, United have the perfect opportunity to seal the deal for Sandro Tonali, who excels both with and without the ball — just what Carrick needs in the engine room. Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Heartbreak looming for Jadon Sancho as dream return to Dortmund is hit with crushing setback – report
Manchester United forward Jadon Sancho has reportedly been dealt a massive blow in his bid to secure a dream reunion with Borussia Dortmund. Exit imminent Sancho is set to leave United at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract. United had the option of extending his stay by an additional 12 months and potentially try to make some money from his exit, but the club opted to release him as a free agent. To say he has been underwhelming since his big-money move to United from Dortmund in July 2021 would be a massive understatement. He managed just 12 goals and six assists in 79 appearances across all competitions for the club. Sancho took a three-month break in the autumn of 2022 due to personal problems. Having then fallen out of favour with Erik ten Hag following their bitter public spat, he was loaned to Dortmund for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign. He enjoyed a slight uptick in form in Germany, helping the side reach the Champions League final, where they lost to Real Madrid. However, Dortmund passed on a permanent deal and Sancho spent the entirety of last term on loan at Chelsea. However, after failing to impress at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea paid United £5m to waive their obligation to sign him permanently. There was intense speculation over his future last summer as United attempted to sell him, but the club eventually had to settle for another loan deal to Aston Villa. Like at Chelsea, he hasn’t pulled up any trees at Villa. But there have been rumours that Villa are open to keeping him if the financials involved make sense. Sancho is said to prefer a second return to Dortmund. The Bundesliga outfit have previously declared that they are also keen on having the forward back. However, in a stunning twist, it has now emerged that Dortmund have “cooled” their interest in the 26-year-old due to a change in transfer strategy. Sancho blow Sky Germany reveal that Dortmund are working with a tight budget heading into the summer window. Dortmund plan to stick with their successful three-at-the-back system, meaning they are less interested in traditional wingers and more in a ‘number 10’ who can drift wide. Sky Germany say, “Therefore, the Jadon Sancho transfer saga is currently on hold. The trail has cooled somewhat.” “However, Sancho remains a topic that could drag on until late summer.” “New sporting director Book is working intensively behind the scenes on potential signings. Sky Sport knows some of the names on the list.” Dortmund are exploring deals for the likes of Kennet Eichhorn (Hertha BSC), Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal), Matt O’Riley (Brighton & Hove Albion), Samuel Martinez (Nacional U20), Vasilije Kostov (Red Star Belgrade) and Matias Fernandez Pardo (OSC Lille). Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
French superstar ends United vs Liverpool transfer speculation with clear message on where he’d love to play next season
This summer is expected to offer Manchester United a perfect opportunity to rebuild their midfield. Casemiro is leaving after four brilliant years at the club, and Manuel Ugarte is also likely to follow the Brazilian through the exit door. When you factor in that United failed to sign a central midfielder last summer, these two departures make the case for bringing in two or three top midfielders even more compelling. The other day, The Peoples Person relayed a report suggesting Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga could be one of the midfielders INEOS go for. Liverpool vs Man United Apparently, the French superstar was left frustrated after missing out entirely on France’s provisional 2026 World Cup squad and feels he needs to move away from Madrid to re-establish himself elsewhere, with United and Liverpool both heavily linked. But just as it seemed we were being set up for a Liverpool-United transfer battle, the 23-year-old has shut down talk of a Bernabeu exit. Eduardo Camavinga speaks As per Florian Plettenberg, Camavinga said, “It’s always a pleasure to play at Real Madrid. I always wanted to be here. We have to think about winning next season.” With the opportunity there to leave the Bernabeu and re-establish himself elsewhere, Camavinga has chosen to stay. Whether things improve for him in the Spanish capital remains to be seen. However, given how stunted his development has been at Madrid, where he has largely been a supporting cast member, United missing out probably should not be too heartbreaking. Not Camavinga, Tchouaméni is the Frenchman United need Camavinga aside, Aurélien Tchouaméni is the Madrid player United could sign this summer. The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best sixes in the world, is not guaranteed to continue at the club. Indeed, credible sources have claimed that the European giants may be ready to sell if United can convince the midfield general to move to Old Trafford. In the end, surely Tchouaméni over Camavinga is the better deal. Featured image Aitor Alcalde via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.
Why United superstar did not fulfil his post-match duties after the Forest game now explained – report
It was a glorious ending to Manchester United’s home Premier League campaign with the Red Devils emerging as 3-2 victors over Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The Old Trafford faithful were treated to some scintillating attacking play at times with Bruno Fernandes registering his record-equalling 20th assist of the season. While the performances of Amad and Bryan Mbeumo were far from satisfactory, the fans had the opportunity to bid adieu to Casemiro for the final time at the Theatre of Dreams. It was an emotional moment for the Brazilian and his family, with the defensive midfielder reduced to tears at one point. Emotional farewell for Casemiro He addressed the home crowd at the end of the game and was also scheduled to meet members of the media to address a press conference. However, as revealed by The Sun, the five-time Champions League winner was too emotional to speak and left Old Trafford without conducting the presser. “MANCHESTER UNITED star Casemiro was too emotional to attend a post-match press conference after his side’s win over Nottingham Forest as he prepares to leave Old Trafford. “He has forged a strong connection with the fanbase and was due to speak after the Forest game to reflect on his time at the club. Why Casemiro did not attend post-match press conference “But the midfielder was not in the right headspace to speak to the media after becoming emotional at the end of the game.” In his brief speech before Carrick took the mic, the Brazil international thanked the fans for their unwavering support over the course of the four years he spent in Manchester. “Thank you and take care everyone. Thank you to the players, thank you to the staff. The best thing in this club is you fans.” The former Real Madrid superstar joined under Erik ten Hag for a mammoth £70 million and made an instant impact, helping the club win the Carabao Cup in his debut season. Great United stint comes to an end He followed it up with an FA Cup triumph the season after, before eventually missing out on the Europa League crown last season. The 34-year-old leaves having guided the 20-time English league champions back into the Champions League. A move to the MLS and Inter Miami is seen as his likely next move. Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Carrick wants this key assurance from United before accepting permanent gig- report
Manchester United assured themselves of a third-place Premier League finish following their 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday. What a turnaround it has been for the Red Devils under Michael Carrick, and INEOS have rightly decided to hand over the club’s reins on a permanent basis to the former midfielder. There were expectations that the club would announce Carrick as the new head coach ahead of Sunday’s final home game of the season, but ultimately there was no news on that front. The Sun have revealed the reason for the delay. The caretaker head coach wants to keep the same backroom staff that he assembled when he walked in heading into the new campaign. Michael Carrick makes key demand While the 20-time English league champions have plans of keeping Steve Holland onboard, there is still no clarity over the futures of Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson. “MANCHESTER UNITED’S announcement to confirm Michael Carrick as their permanent head coach is being held up by resolving the issue of his backroom staff. “United have reached an agreement with Carrick for a two-year deal with the option of an additional year. Carrick’s agent, Jo Tongue, was at United’s Carrington training complex on Thursday and attended their 3-2 defeat of Nottingham Forest on Sunday. “United wanted to confirm Carrick’s promotion at the weekend but it is likely to be announced this week. Carrick wants to keep the backroom staff he assembled when he was appointed for the remainder of the season on January 13.” Michael Carrick does not want to abandon his staff Both Holland and Woodgate have extensive managerial experience at the top level, unlike Evans and Binnion. The former United centre-back returned to the fold under Darren Fletcher, who took over on an interim basis following Ruben Amorim’s sacking. Evans had just left his post as loans manager two months ago before he got the call. As for Binnion, he was promoted from his post as U21 manager. Players have been impressed with his coaching and both he and the goalkeeper coach are due to receive a bump in their wages to reflect their senior status. Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
“There simply aren’t enough words”: United ace pens emotional farewell message after “unforgettable” stint at the club
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro delivered an emotional farewell message to the club and its supporters after he played his final game at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon against Nottingham Forest. Chapter closed In January, Casemiro confirmed that he will be departing United at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract. United had the option of extending his stay by an additional 12 months but opted against it, presumably to offload his massive wages from the books. The Brazilian’s dramatic uptick in form since Michael Carrick’s arrival as interim head coach sparked fan calls for United to perform a U-turn and keep him for at least one more year. However, Carrick shut down such talk, insisting that the decision had already been made. Casemiro is also on the record saying that there was no chance of staying, despite his evident love for United. The five-time Champions League winner was named in the starting XI on Sunday as United played their final home game of the 2025/26 campaign. Casemiro emerged from the tunnel to thunderous applause and the sight of a huge banner unfurled at the Stretford End. He was treated to an equally immense standing ovation when he was taken off in the second half and replaced by Mason Mount. A clearly emotional Casemiro was fighting back tears as he took his place on the bench. After the final whistle, he addressed fans at Old Trafford and thanked them for their unwavering support over the past four years. Carrick paid a special tribute to the veteran midfielder, who is now looking ahead to the next chapter in his illustrious and trophy-laden career. Casemiro’s message Casemiro took to social media and penned a special message to United and everyone associated with the club. He wrote, “There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become part of who we are.” “Manchester will forever be my home.” “To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives.” “There simply aren’t enough words to describe the happiness and warmth we’ve felt here.” “Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from the very first day.” “Forever a Red Devil.” There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become part of who we are. Manchester will forever be my home. To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family… pic.twitter.com/gw1NEBiYk5 — Casemiro (@Casemiro) May 17, 2026 Casemiro has amassed 161 appearances for United, contributing 26 goals in that period. Featured image by Molly Darlington/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
United face fierce battle for their own Griezmann as ambitious rivals plot to spoil the party – report
A left‑winger signing is firmly on Manchester United’s agenda this summer. INEOS are keen to bring on board a natural left‑winger, a profile which this United squad is currently missing. With all their natural left‑wingers having departed, the Red Devils have had to deploy Matheus Cunha in that role. Although the Brazilian has been fantastic there, the 20‑time English champions know they must still secure a natural option. Ander Barrenetxea linked Some brilliant wingers have been linked, and recently, The Peoples Person relayed reports of United eyeing Real Sociedad’s Ander Barrenetxea. United once dreamed of landing Antoine Griezmann, and now they have the opportunity to secure their own version of the Atlético Madrid legend. Much like Griezmann, Barrenetxea came through the San Sebastián footballing system, and the similarities do not end there. Both possess intelligent movement, technical quality, and the ability to influence games both creatively and in front of goal. Consequently, many have described the 24‑year‑old as a younger Griezmann. With every motivation for INEOS to move for the La Real star, however, a concerning report has now surfaced. Villa trying to derail Man United’s move for their own Griezmann According to Teamtalk, the 20‑time English champions face serious competition in their pursuit of the winger. They report: “Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is pushing for the club to explore a move for Real Sociedad star Ander Barrenetxea, with sources telling TEAMtalk that the Spanish forward has emerged as one of Villa’s standout attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window. “Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have all scouted Barrenetxea extensively this year and have been left hugely impressed by his performances in Spain.” As a result, Aston Villa may be pushing hard to win this race, but that move will not be straightforward. The Old Trafford faithful will be hoping that news of Villa pressing hard for the Spaniard prompts INEOS into action, and that United chiefs move quickly to trump their Premier League rivals and land their own Griezmann. That said, Barrenetxea has a £65.5 million release clause. Whether that proves to be the magic number for his exit, with Real Sociedad set to hold firm on that figure, per Teamtalk, remains to be seen. Featured image Florencia Tan Jun via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.
Bruno Fernandes could break two Kevin De Bruyne records in one big final-day showdown – report
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes is enjoying a historic season and could earn further accolades before the end of the campaign. The Portuguese maestro has already won the Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year award and remains in the running for the Premier League Player of the Year award. Fernandes has been voted by his club teammates as the Players’ Player of the Year, while he has also picked up a record fifth Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award. Earlier this year, the United skipper broke David Beckham’s long-standing record for the most assists (15) in a Premier League season for the club. Over the weekend, the 31 year old registered his 20th assist of the season in the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest. In the process, Fernandes equalled the record for the most assists in a Premier League season, previously held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. The fact that the Portuguese managed it despite playing half the season in a deeper role is what makes it all the more impressive. Bruno Fernandes’ record-breaking season for United Fernandes started the season as part of a midfield double pivot alongside Casemiro, in a bid to accommodate United’s new-look attack in former head coach Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system. With the Red Devils investing over £200 million in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, many expected the Portuguese to take a backseat. However, it soon became evident that Fernandes was United’s main man, even from a deeper role. The former Sporting man’s intelligence, work ethic and ability on the ball helped him adapt quickly to the new position and still influence games. Fernandes has since revealed that playing in the pivot position helped elevate his game. The Portuguese, though, only registered his first Premier League assist of the season in the eighth game, in the 2-1 win over Liverpool. By the end of the year, he had managed seven assists from 17 games, all while playing in the deeper position. The United skipper was briefly sidelined with a hamstring injury, and in his absence, the Red Devils parted ways with Amorim and replaced him with Michael Carrick. After picking up his eighth assist of the season under interim manager Darren Fletcher, Fernandes hit a higher gear under Carrick. The Englishman switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation with the Portuguese in the No. 10 role. Fernandes responded by registering 12 assists in 16 games under Carrick, all the while helping United finish third in the Premier League table and secure Champions League football. With one game left in the campaign, the Portuguese could break not one but two De Bruyne records this season. Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League34348205-2,978′ FA Cup11-1–90′ EFL Cup10—-45′ Total36358215-3,113′ Source: Transfermarkt. Fernandes on the brink of history According to talkSPORT, De Bruyne recorded the most big chances created in a Premier League season (33), which he achieved in the 2019/20 campaign in 35 games. The Belgian also registered his record-equalling 20 assists in the same season. Fernandes has registered 32 big chances in the Premier League this season in 34 outings, so he will have the opportunity to break two Premier League records next weekend, when United face Brighton at the Amex. The Portuguese also registered 32 big chances in the 2022/23 campaign. Final Thoughts After managing just 44 goals in 38 games last season, United have significantly improved their output in the final third, plundering 66 goals in 37 games this campaign. Central to their turnaround has been an inspired Fernandes, who deserves his piece of history on the final matchday of the season. Since Bruno Fernandes joined Man Utd, he has created more chances (670) and registered more assists (71) than any other player in the Premier League. Peerless playmaker. 🔝 pic.twitter.com/kH8oBkEQVT — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 18, 2026 Featured image by Molly Darlington/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
