40 goals and 40 assists - Bruno Fernandes gets backing from ex-Man Utd star

Former Manchester United playmaker Juan Mata has thrown his full support behind Bruno Fernandes, predicting the Portuguese midfielder will be one of the standout stars in the 2025/26 season.

Fernandes, who currently sits on 98 career goals for Manchester United, is just one behind club legend Bryan Robson.

Speaking to MUTV during the ‘Football City, Art United’ exhibition in Manchester, which he co-curated, Mata expressed optimism about the club’s future despite the heartbreak of last season's Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

“Of course, it has been a tough season and everyone was really excited about the final, which I watched from Australia. I was as sad as everyone with the final result. But I think and I really hope that next season is going to be better,” Mata said.

"So, I really hope that, next season, he scores 40 goals and he gets 40 assists, and is the MVP [most valuable player] of the league! And he can, you know, keep doing what he’s doing because I think he’s instrumental for the present and for the future of the club," he added.

Mata, now playing for Western Sydney Wanderers, shares a close bond with Fernandes, the player who inherited his No.8 shirt at Old Trafford.

The pair remain in contact regularly, and the Spaniard revealed he’s been a source of encouragement for Bruno through both highs and lows.

“I love Bruno. We speak a lot, and I try to always be there for him. When things are not going well is where I try to be there for him. I hope that next season he scores 40 goals, gets 40 assists, and is MVP of the league!,” Mata said.

The Portuguese star was recently named Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year and is also in contention for the PFA Team of the Year.

All eyes will be on the season opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, where he’ll have the chance to start his campaign with a milestone moment.