Monaco midfielder and former Manchester United star, Paul Pogba, has claimed that Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes would be a Ballon d’Or winner if he played for a more dominant club like Manchester City.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast on Wednesday, Pogba praised Fernandes’ technical ability and consistency, suggesting the Portuguese playmaker’s reputation would be significantly higher in a more successful team environment.
“Bruno Fernandes, in other big clubs, is in the top three Ballon d’Or,” Pogba said.
He went further to argue that Fernandes’ performances would translate into global individual recognition if he were part of a consistently dominant side.
“You put him in [Manchester] City, he’s in the Ballon d’Or,” he added.
Fernandes has been one of Manchester United’s standout performers this season, registering 18 Premier League assists and moving closer to the all-time single-season assist record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
He also provided a key assist in United’s recent victory over Chelsea, continuing a campaign defined by goals, creativity, and leadership.
His performances have drawn praise from teammates, including goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who described Fernandes as “an example for us” in raising standards within the squad.
However, Pogba also stressed that individual accolades are closely tied to team success.
“When you don’t win, we don’t think about you,” he said.
Fernandes, who joined Manchester United from Sporting CP in 2020 for £47 million, has made over 300 appearances for the club and scored more than 100 goals.
Despite reported interest from Saudi Pro League clubs in recent transfer windows, he has remained at Old Trafford, where he continues to play a central role under contract until 2027.
Pogba’s comments have reignited debate over how much club success influences recognition in elite individual awards such as the Ballon d’Or.
