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Bruno Fernandes hails Man City star Kevin De Bruyne for his role in changing the Premier League as Manchester United star claims honour for treble-winning rival
Bruno Fernandes has showered Kevin De Bruyne with praise after picking the Manchester City star in his preferred XI and crediting him for changing the Premier League.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Bruno Fernandes participated in Complex Sports’ Pick 11 format and selected Kevin De Bruyne alongside Arsenal legend Jack Wilshere as his two central midfielders. The Manchester United star heaped praise on the City talisman, acknowledging his significant role in transforming the Premier League. Fernandes expressed his belief that Manchester City’s dominance during De Bruyne’s tenure has been a considerable factor in Manchester United’s lack of silverware over the past decade.
Fernandes told Complex Sports: “De Bruyne made the Premier League better. If City is where they are and Manchester United haven’t won as many trophies, it is because of Kevin De Bruyne. He deserves all the credit. He’s achieved fantastic results. Ten years in the Premier League is a lot. He’s going to stay in the history of the Premier League, not just in Manchester City’s history.”
He continued: “Kevin has consistently been one of the best, if not the best, players in the Premier League since the day he stepped foot at City. His consistency, despite injuries, has been incredible. He’s changed the dynamics of the league in so many ways.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE:
De Bruyne recently announced his intention to leave Manchester City at the end of the season, cementing a legacy that includes six Premier League titles, a Champions League triumph, and 16 trophies overall since his arrival in 2015. Fernandes’ glowing tribute comes after Manchester United and Manchester City played to a goalless draw in the Belgian’s final Manchester derby. De Bruyne’s influence on the league, especially as a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s system, has earned him respect across the footballing world, as underscored by Fernandes’ remarks.
Addressing his respect for the City playmaker, Fernandes said: “It’s been an honour to play against him. Kevin is a world-class player. It’s no surprise City have been so dominant during his time there. Watching him so closely, game after game, you realize his extraordinary impact.”
WHAT NEXT?
Bruno Fernandes’ forthright comments may have stirred mixed reactions among Manchester United fans, given the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs. However, his statements highlight the mutual respect that exists between two of the Premier League’s finest midfielders. For De Bruyne, the focus will now shift to finishing his final season at Manchester City on a high, with the team aiming for further success under Guardiola.
