The Portuguese playmaker believed the Belgian to be one of the best in Europe having faced him with Monaco last season in the Champions League.
But after six months of training and playing alongside De Bruyne, Bernardo is now convinced his team-mate is world class – and getting better all the time.
“Kevin, he was already a fantastic player, but he has definitely moved up to another level this season,” said Bernardo.
“He is a fantastic footballer and has everything. He has done amazing things this season and I’m certain he has become one of the best players in the world, without a doubt.
“I’ve been fortunate to play with many great players including Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal.
“Kevin and Cristiano do not play in the same position, of course, but it is fantastic to play alongside him and David Silva because they are so good and so consistent.
“It’s great to have players like this in your team who score goals, assist goals, defend and attack have great intelligence.”
With three goals in his last seven games, Bernardo is beginning to show the sort of form that convinced City to bring him to the Etihad last summer.
Still only 23, the former Monaco star admits he is adapting to the physicality and pace of the Premier League and is looking forward to showing the Blues’ fans what he is capable of.
“I’m feeling better and better, but I’m still not showing my very best form,” he claimed.
“I have to be patient and wait for my opportunities. It’s my first year in England and I know next year I will do much, much better.
“I always try to improve and that won’t change, but I think the City fans are yet to see the best of me, but will do in the months ahead and next season.”
