Overview
- Paul Pogba, speaking on Rio Ferdinand's podcast in interviews published Wednesday, argued Bruno Fernandes would rank in the Ballon d'Or top three if he played for Manchester City and said a lack of big trophies hurts his recognition.
- Fernandes has eight Premier League goals and 18 assists this season, leaving him two shy of the single‑season assist record of 20 as Manchester United sit third in the table.
- On Tuesday, former United defender Gary Pallister said Fernandes deserves the Ballon d'Or but warned he may miss out because he is not at a current European powerhouse.
- United’s interim manager Michael Carrick praised Fernandes’ leadership after the win at Chelsea, calling his impact immense after the captain’s assist to Matheus Cunha marked his 18th of the league campaign.
- Analysis pieces cautioned that a move to a dominant club would not guarantee the same role or numbers for Fernandes, noting Ballon d'Or voters often favor standout players from Champions League or World Cup winners.