Carrick has firmly stated that Manchester United "definitely" does not want to lose Bruno Fernandes during the upcoming summer transfer window. Persistent rumors have surrounded the long-term future of the 31-year-old attacking midfielder, especially after he hinted in December that his time in Manchester might be coming to an end.

Fernandes had also previously turned down a lucrative offer to sign for a team in Saudi Arabia. However, following a resounding 3-1 victory over Aston Villa, the manager did not hesitate to highlight the immense value of his captain.

Speaking to the media, Carrick stated, "As far as the club and the future are concerned, I find it difficult to go into too much detail about that. Bruno is not, without a doubt, someone we want to lose, that I can assure you, but regarding the summer and beyond, I find it hard to venture too much, although, without a doubt, he is important for us and he is not, by any means, someone we want to lose."

The captain arrived at the match needing one assist to equal the long-standing record held by David Beckham, but he provided two, raising his season tally to 16 assists in 27 Premier League games, a remarkable feat when compared to the 31 games the English legend played during the 1999-2000 season.

The midfielder has been the primary source of inspiration, with 16 assists and seven goals in total, despite the hamstring injury he suffered in December. Furthermore, the Portuguese star became the third player in United's history to reach 100 goals and 100 assists, joining Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs in the record books.

Carrick noted, "Bruno has been doing it for a long time. In the important moments, he is usually there. Maybe he can break the record in a single season... It's something that comes naturally, but if he achieves it, he will have created goals for us, so I'll be delighted."

This crucial victory consolidates United in third place with 54 points, giving them a three-point advantage over Villa. With eight rounds remaining, the fight for the top four spots is intensifying. A tough final stretch awaits United, including a trip to Chelsea and a hugely important home clash against Liverpool in early May.

While Arsenal and Manchester City battle for the title, the Red Devils must maintain consistency against teams like Bournemouth, Leeds, and Brentford. With their star in record-breaking form, the club appears well-positioned to return to European elite competition.

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