Bruno Fernandes has expressed his frustration regarding Roy Keane's recent comments, stating that while he accepts professional criticism, he cannot tolerate "false accusations." Fernandes revealed on "The Diary of a CEO" that he even attempted to contact Keane directly, seeking assistance from former coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, to clarify misunderstandings. He emphasized his respect for Keane as a Manchester United legend but desires more accurate statements.

On the Stick To Football program on 19/5, Keane criticized Fernandes and other Manchester United players for focusing too much on helping the Portuguese midfielder break the Premier League assist record, rather than prioritizing team victories. The 54-year-old former midfielder became more agitated when Fernandes admitted to sometimes choosing to pass instead of shoot to achieve personal milestones, following Manchester United's 3-2 win against Nottingham Forest in the 37th round of the Premier League.

"What I do not like is when people misrepresent what I say. In this case, what he said about me is untrue. Fortunately, everything is recorded, otherwise, people would think I only cared about getting assists," the Manchester United captain stated.

"He can say I am not good enough, not worthy; I accept that. But I do not accept being accused of things I did not say," Fernandes stressed.

Bruno Fernandes celebrates a goal during Manchester United's 3-0 victory over Brighton in the 38th round of the Premier League at Amex Stadium, Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, England on 24/5. Photo: Reuters

Fernandes's assist for Patrick Dorgu's opening goal in Manchester United's 3-0 victory over Brighton on the final day of the 2025-2026 Premier League season brought his total assists to 21. This surpassed the record of 20 assists set by Thierry Henry at Arsenal in the 2002-2003 season and Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City in the 2019-2020 season.

Achieving this assist record in a single season earned Fernandes a double of individual accolades: the Football Writers' Association (FWA) Player of the Season award and the 2025-2026 Premier League Player of the Season award.

Following the Premier League's final round, coach Michael Carrick viewed Fernandes breaking the assist record as a testament to his consistency and quality. "He creates chances very often, very creatively in crucial areas. It is no surprise he did it again today," Carrick said. "But as Bruno himself says, finishing the situation is the responsibility of the players receiving the ball."

The English coach also believes Fernandes will continue to play for Manchester United next season. The Portuguese midfielder's contract runs until 2027, and he reportedly received an offer worth hundreds of millions of USD from Al Hilal in the summer of 2025.

Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail, Sky Sports)