Bruno Fernandes demands share of goal bonuses, Casemiro's response revealed! Carrick advises Manchester United must retain him.

In Manchester United's 3-1 win against Aston Villa, captain Bruno Fernandes was instrumental, delivering two assists that not only ensured victory but also saw him exceed David Beckham's club record of 15 assists in a single Premier League season established 26 years ago. United icons Wayne Rooney and Everton's Jack Grealish openly commended Fernandes' play as aesthetically pleasing.

Among these, Fernandes' first assist came from a corner, helping Casemiro score with a header. This marks the fifth time this season he has assisted "Fat Tiger" in scoring. After the match, Fernandes revealed he asked the Brazilian captain to share his goal bonuses with him.

"I saw the passing line to assist him and delivered the ball directly. I recall he has scored seven goals this season, five of which were my assists," Fernandes said. "So I told him he should share his goal bonuses with me. He replied that I should give him a bonus instead, because he helped me get the assists."

Analyzing the默契 between them, Fernandes explained: "I have a great relationship with him; he is a player who likes to move around. During the first half, he told me he wanted the ball delivered before Zone 1. When taking corners in the second half, I reminded him of the delivery point, he moved to the correct position, and his timing was perfect."

Since joining in 2020, Fernandes has contributed 105 goals and 103 assists, placing him among the greatest players in club history. Regarding surpassing Beckham's record, Fernandes responded: "We are talking about one of the best passers (Beckham), so I am delighted to break the record. This doesn't change my true goals, but I feel honored to be alongside a player renowned for his passing and crossing."

Fernandes revealed he imitated Beckham's moves as a child. "He was undoubtedly a role model everyone looked up to, exemplary in both crossing and passing technique," Fernandes explained. "Just like everyone trying Beckham-style passes and shots in their backyard, even just his arm movements without actually shooting! I am certainly very happy to surpass him."

However, the United captain stated he prefers team honors. "Obviously, records are not what I dream of or actively pursue; I always prefer helping the team win in most matches," he added. "Of course, goals and assists are a significant part of my game, and I am pleased my performance today helped the team win. Until the season ends, I want to continue assisting the team and improving in terms of results."

Manchester United manager Carrick indicated that Fernandes' future this summer may not be entirely within his control, but he strongly advised the club to retain the 31-year-old Portuguese international, as replacing him would be extremely difficult, especially with Casemiro already confirmed to depart.

Last summer, United considered selling Fernandes, but former manager Ruben Amorim intervened to persuade the player to stay. Carrick stated he is planning for United's long-term development and opposes letting Fernandes leave before his contract expires. Fernandes' contract with United runs until 2027 with an option for an additional year, extending to 2028.

Carrick explained: "Regarding the club's future development, it's difficult for me to be heavily involved at present. But I can definitely say we absolutely do not want to lose Bruno (Fernandes). Matters in summer and beyond are beyond my control, but he is crucial to United, and we must not lose him."

The United manager confirmed his tactics revolve around Fernandes. "I think he is very important for us; in his current position, we need to find him and support him as much as possible, letting him decide matches, but this isn't only about Bruno. I know he recently achieved some milestones and has been at United for a long time. However, I believe this is a team; the importance of分担责任 lies in not always burdening one player, which I think is truly significant. This way, others' workload is lighter, and he doesn't have to shoulder everything himself."

Fernandes' corner assist to Casemiro's goal has been a key scoring method for United this season, with Fat Tiger scoring six times from set-pieces. Carrick revealed assistant coach Evans also contributed.

"Bruno has consistently contributed at critical moments for a long time, changing the course of games. Whether scoring himself or creating chances, he is usually involved. In this match, he had two different assists," Carrick said. "I think his understanding of Casemiro is profound; they worked with Jonny (Evans) on tactical arrangements, different套路运用, space creation, etc. Moreover, you can instruct them, teach them tactics, helping them understand they have excellent默契."

Carrick added: "They have配合 like this several times before, so it's good. Then obviously, Bruno's pass to Cunha, moving into position for the final delivery, is something we've seen before. Later he passed similarly to Benjamin (Šeško). About Bruno, I've said much already, really nothing more to add, but I think he is truly incredible."