Paul Pogba believes Bruno Fernandes would be firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation if he played in a stronger, trophy-winning environment such as Manchester City. The former Manchester United midfielder described Fernandes as a “top player” but suggested greater recognition would follow if he were surrounded by higher-performing teammates.
Paul Pogba believes Bruno Fernandes would be firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation if he played in a stronger, trophy-winning environment such as Manchester City. The former Manchester United midfielder described Fernandes as a “top player” but suggested greater recognition would follow if he were surrounded by higher-performing teammates.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast, Pogba argued that Fernandes already has the qualities required to rank among the world’s best. In his view, placing the United captain in a dominant side would elevate him into the top three contenders for the prestigious individual prize.
Fernandes last featured among Ballon d’Or nominees in 2021, finishing joint 21st alongside Lautaro Martínez. Pogba’s comments underline his belief that team success plays a decisive role in individual recognition.
At 31, Fernandes continues to deliver strong performances, recently registering his 18th Premier League assist of the campaign in a victory over Chelsea. That tally leaves him just two short of the all-time single-season record of 20, jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
He has also scored eight goals this season and has been credited for his leadership, with goalkeeper Senne Lammens highlighting his influence in raising standards within the squad. Pogba praised Fernandes’ relentless work rate, intelligence, and versatility, noting his ability to play quickly and contribute across the pitch.
However, Pogba stressed that individual accolades are closely tied to collective achievements. Without major trophies, he suggested, even standout performers risk being overlooked in awards discussions.
Reflecting on younger players, Pogba addressed the situation of Kobbie Mainoo, who has been negotiating a new deal with United. The midfielder, now 21, broke into the first team in 2023 and earned an England call-up the following year, but previously endured a difficult spell under Ruben Amorim.
Mainoo had sought a loan move to Napoli last summer, though the request was denied. Under Michael Carrick, he has returned to the side, and Pogba believes he has the potential for a successful career at Old Trafford.
Despite understanding the temptation to move—having left United himself earlier in his career—Pogba admitted it is difficult to advise Mainoo to depart given the support he receives from fans. Ultimately, he emphasized that he simply wants to see the young midfielder continue playing and developing.
Pogba also revisited his own return to United in 2016, when he rejoined from Juventus for a then world-record fee. He contrasted the environment with the club he had previously left, noting changes following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.
By the time Pogba came back, José Mourinho had taken charge after Louis van Gaal. Pogba observed that the atmosphere, culture, and even day-to-day details at the club felt different compared to his earlier spell.
Now playing for Monaco, Pogba recently returned to action after his doping ban was reduced to 19 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. He expressed gratitude for being able to play again, adding that the experience has changed his outlook and renewed his enjoyment of football.
