wPaul Pogba has claimed that Bruno Fernandes would be a Ballon d’Or winner if he played for a dominant side like Manchester City.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the former Manchester United midfielder praised Fernandes’ quality but argued that his reputation is limited by his club’s inconsistency.
“Bruno Fernandes, in other big clubs, is in the top three for the Ballon d’Or,” Pogba said. “You put him in [Manchester] City, he’s in the Ballon d’Or.”
The Monaco midfielder stressed that individual accolades are often shaped by team success: “When you don’t win, we don’t think about you.”
Fernandes has been one of United’s standout performers this season, registering 18 Premier League assists—closing in on the all-time single-season record held jointly by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. He also provided a key assist in United’s recent win over Chelsea, further demonstrating his creative influence and leadership.
His form has drawn praise from teammates, including goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who called Fernandes “an example for us” in raising standards.
Since joining United from Sporting CP for £47 million in 2020, Fernandes has made over 300 appearances and scored more than 100 goals. Despite interest from Saudi Pro League clubs in recent windows, he has remained at Old Trafford, where he is under contract until 2027 and remains a central figure.
Pogba’s comments have reignited debate over how much team success influences major individual awards, with United continuing to compete near the top of the Premier League table.
