Kelvin De Bruyne NAMED ONE United player that really surprised Him this season with outstanding performance

Kevin De Bruyne, celebrating a decade of brilliance at Manchester City, took a surprising detour from his usual focus to praise a player from the other side of Manchester. Despite a career packed with major milestones—over a hundred goals, nearly two hundred assists, six Premier League titles, and a Champions League trophy—the Belgian midfielder found himself stopping to applaud a rival: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United.

Speaking ahead of the always-intense Manchester derby, De Bruyne didn’t hold back in acknowledging Fernandes’s impact. “He’s a wonderful player… I don’t know who gave him that freedom, but he’s been top class,” he said, a rare moment of admiration from a figure not known for casually handing out compliments. The respect wasn’t just diplomatic—it was earned through sheer footballing quality.

Fernandes, known for his sharp vision, tireless work rate, and leadership, has been a consistent thorn in City’s side this season. For De Bruyne—a master of reading the game and exploiting the tiniest of weaknesses—it meant something to be caught off guard by the composure and precision Fernandes brought to the midfield.

While City’s midfield has long been defined by De Bruyne’s genius, it was Fernandes who turned heads in the clash of the titans this season. Earning a nod from someone often considered among the world’s best says a great deal about just how influential the Portuguese midfielder has been. Fernandes didn’t just compete—he impressed.

Despite dealing with injuries, De Bruyne still managed three goals and seven assists in 24 appearances, maintaining his usual high standard. Yet it was Fernandes, through United’s ups and downs, who stood tall, dictating play and creating chances with both flair and discipline. His season stats back it up: 15 goals, 11 assists, and 87 chances created, with a sharp 88% pass completion in the final third.

So when De Bruyne spoke up, it wasn’t just empty praise. It was a veteran recognizing another midfield general stepping into the spotlight. In a rivalry often marked by tension and fierce competition, that kind of recognition carries weight. It’s not every day a City legend tips his hat to a United star—but Fernandes earned it.