Bruno Fernandes’ comment about Kevin De Bruyne following the Manchester derby has got fans talking.
Fernandes, 30, and De Bruyne, 33, both started the clash between Manchester United and Manchester City but neither could make a positive impact on proceedings in what proved to be a dull 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.
Of course, earlier last week the Belgium international announced that he will leave City at the end of the 2024/25 season having won 16 trophies – including six Premier League crowns and a Champions League – during his decade-long spell at the Etihad.
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Tributes from various big names flooded in with fans recalling the 33-year-old’s greatest moments but what did Fernandes have to say about the six-time Premier League winner?
The question was put to him by a Sky Sports reporter after the Manchester derby.
“He made the Premier League better,” Fernandes said.
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The pair have faced off 14 times during their career with Fernandes winning just four times with four draws and seven losses against the Man City man.
Fans had their say on social media.
One said: "Bruno is pure class not only a great footballer but also a remarkable sportsman."
Another added: "Touch of class from Bruno."
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While a third commented: "Manchester United captain twerking for a rival player and calling it a pleasure to not win trophies against them. Such a sad decline of this massive club."
Despite this Fernandes was quick to praise the City playmaker.
“If City is where it is and Man United have not won as many trophies in this period, it is also because of Kevin De Bruyne,” the Man Utd captain added.
“He deserves all the credit, 10 years in the Premier League is a lot. They have decided to part ways, I don’t know from whose side.
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“Kevin keeps being world-class and it was a pleasure to watch him so close and play against him.
“He is going to stay in the history of the Premier League, not just Man City.”
De Bruyne’s next move is still unclear although links with a potential move to Major League Soccer (MLS) have been widely reported.
Foot Mercato suggests De Bruyne has been in ‘serious’ and ‘positive’ talks with Saudi second-tier side Neom SC, who are well placed to make the step up to the Saudi Pro League next season.
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Clubs such River Plate, Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe and San Diego FC have also been linked with a potential move for the player.
"At my age, you have to be open to everything," De Bruyne said when speaking to Belgian outlet HLN last summer.
"You talk about unbelievable amounts in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that."
Topics: Bruno Fernandes, Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester United, Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Luke Davies