Bruno Fernandes leads assist charts ahead of World Cup

Bruno Fernandes has etched his name in Premier League history, setting a new record for assists during the 2025-26 season. Sofascore and Opta data confirm he registered 15 assists in the year of the World Cup, a tournament where he aims to replicate his playmaking prowess for the Portuguese national team.

At Manchester United, Fernandes' influence was evident as he set up five different teammates. Benjamin Šeško was a primary beneficiary, scoring four goals from Fernandes' passes. The Portuguese midfielder's signature moves included curved crosses from the wing and incisive through balls. He also proved a threat from set pieces, forming a productive link with Casemiro, who scored seven of his nine season goals from Fernandes' deliveries.

Fernandes' remarkable assist tally was matched by Son Heung-Min (Los Angeles FC) and Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), both of whom will feature in the World Cup. Notably, Borussia Dortmund's Julian Ryerson, a right-back, also broke the mold of attacking players dominating the assist charts. Ryerson generated significant offensive output in the Bundesliga, providing 13 assists in 2026. His performance against Mainz 05 in February 2026 was historic, as he assisted all four goals in a single match, a feat unprecedented for a defender in Germany's top division. He finished the season as the second-highest assist provider with 15, trailing only Olise (19 total, 15 in 2026) and ahead of Luis Díaz (14 total, 12 in 2026).

South American representation came from José López of Palmeiras, who contributed 10 assists with his left foot, particularly excelling in aerial play extensions. Meanwhile, Díaz formed a formidable attacking trio with Olise and Harry Kane at Bayern Munich, collectively scoring 109 goals last season. The article also notes the unfortunate absence of Fermín López from Spain's World Cup squad due to injury, despite his recognized ability to deliver aggressive passes and shots.