Manchester United are top of the Champions League group after three games, but it has been anything but plain sailing.
After a surprise opening game loss, United have relied on late winners from Cristiano Ronaldo to clinch late victories.
Bruno Fernandes has played his part too. Ronaldo’s Portugal and United teammate ranks number one in the Champions League in three categories.
Top for assists
Fernandes has been credited with four assists so far through United’s opening three games.
These include his assist for Ronaldo against Young Boys, for Alex Telles against Villarreal. Then after his set up for Marcus Rashford against Atalanta, he was also credited with the assist for Harry Maguire’s goal.
As noted by FBRef, Fernandes’ four assists ranks him highest in the Champions League.
Closest to Fernandes are Ajax’s Antony, Bayern’s Leroy Sane, and Sheriff Tiraspol’s Cristiano da Silva Leite.
Highest for chances created
Fernandes ranking number one for assists is no fluke. He has created more chances than any other player among the 32 teams.
In total Fernandes has created 11 chances, more than the five players who have managed 10.
One of these is Villarreal midfielder Dani Parejo, and United will have to be particularly wary of him when the two sides meet again in late November.
Number one for through balls
Fernandes has played the joint highest number of successful through balls, registering three.
Only Luka Modric has matched Fernandes for three so far in the competition.
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