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New video evidence has raised questions over the legitimacy of Bruno Fernandes’ record-breaking Premier League assist.

The Manchester United skipper, who was honoured as the Premier League’s Player of the Season, made headlines in the final match of the campaign when Patrick Dorgu converted his corner into a goal against Brighton.

That assist marked Fernandes’ 21st of the season, surpassing the previous record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

The moment sparked jubilant celebrations among the Manchester United squad on the south coast, accompanied by a wave of congratulatory posts from fans and football personalities on social media.

However, subsequent goal-line footage appeared to show that Dorgu’s header struck the crossbar before deflecting off Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and crossing the line.

According to the rules, if the ball last touched Verbruggen before entering the goal, it could be recorded as an own goal—meaning Fernandes’ assist would not stand.

So, could his record be taken away? The short answer: no.

The goal was initially awarded on the field, and the Goal Accreditation Panel—comprising former players and a referee—has decided not to make any changes to the decision.

Nevertheless, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg believes there is some justification for revisiting the ruling.

“I’ve reviewed the incident multiple times, and I understand why there’s confusion regarding the decision to credit Bruno Fernandes with the assist,” Clattenburg stated. “From a referee’s viewpoint, such situations are rarely as clear-cut as they seem.”

“The ball undeniably strikes the crossbar first, and then there’s a significant touch from the goalkeeper, which alters the entire context of the play.”

“That’s where the controversy arises, because officials must decide whether the attacking phase continues seamlessly or whether the goalkeeper’s involvement becomes substantial enough to redefine the outcome.”

“If the goal were later reclassified, particularly as an own goal, Bruno Fernandes would lose the assist instantly—and with it, the record he set.”

“That’s the nature of top-level football. Records, statistics, and iconic moments can hinge on the smallest deflection or the most nuanced interpretation of a single phase of play.”