Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has credited Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne as a key reason behind United’s recent struggles to secure major trophies.
Fernandes made the remarks following United’s 0-0 draw with City in the Premier League on Sunday.
The Portuguese international praised De Bruyne for raising the standard of football in the English top flight and acknowledged the Belgian’s pivotal role in City’s dominance over the years.
“Kevin De Bruyne made the Premier League better,” Fernandes told Sky Sports.
“If Man City are where they are and Manchester United haven’t won as many trophies in this period, it’s also because of Kevin De Bruyne. He deserves all the credit — he’s been fantastic.”
Fernandes’ comments come shortly after De Bruyne announced that he will be leaving Manchester City at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old is set to depart Pep Guardiola’s side as a free agent after an illustrious decade with the reigning Premier League champions.
Manchester United, on the other hand, last claimed the Premier League title in 2013 under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.