Bruno Fernandes inspires Man Utd to 3-1 win over Aston Villa

Bruno Fernandes made history as Manchester United beat Aston Villa 3-1 to move closer to a return to the Champions League. The captain provided key assists as United tightened their grip on third place, opening a three-point gap with Unai Emery's side. The first half was uninspiring, with only one shot on target — Amad Diallo's header saved by Emi Martinez.

United improved after the break and Martinez denied Bryan Mbeumo before a corner from that move allowed Casemiro to meet Fernandes' delivery and score, his seventh of the season. A couple of defensive lapses allowed Villa to level in the 64th minute, with Ross Barkley — making his first league start since January 2025 — capitalising on the chaos.

United hit back when Fernandes released Matheus Cunha, who scored for the first time in six games, and Benjamin Sesko sealed the win to leave United six points clear of fifth place. GOAL's ratings highlighted Fernandes at 9/10 and Casemiro at 8/10.

bruno fernandes, manchester united, aston villa, casemiro, matheus cunha, benjamin sesko, ross barkley, champions league, unai emery, emi martinez