Bernardo Silva is a key part of the Man City squad but could leave in the summerplaceholder image
Bernardo Silva is a key part of the Man City squad but could leave in the summer | Getty Images
Manchester City defeated Fulham 3-0 in the Premier League fixture on Wednesday night.
Pep Guardiola believes Bernardo Silva is 'irreplaceable' in the Manchester City side after he shone in their 3-0 victory over Fulham on Wednesday night. The 31-year-old ran the show as City secured a famous win over Liverpool over the weekend, and produced another fine display as they picked up another three points in midweek.
Bernardo impressed during his hour-long performance against Fulham, as he finished the match with a 90 percent passing accuracy, two ground duels won, and one successful interception. The Portugal international also contributed a lot out of possession, as he helped press high to give City control of the match.
It is widely believed Bernardo could be on the move at the end of the season, nine years after he joined the club from Ligue 1 side Monaco for £43 million. The versatile midfielder has more than justified his price tag and continues to play a unique role in the City squad.
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Guardiola hails Bernardo after Fulham win
Speaking after Manchester City secured a 3-0 win over Fulham, Pep Guardiola praised Bernardo Silva for his importance to the side. "He is irreplaceable,” Guardiola told reporters in his post-match press conference.
“When Bernardo isn't playing, we have to play in a different system. He is irreplaceable. First, he comes to press the goalkeeper, and then to build the game with Rodri. And sometimes, he goes to the right, at Anfield, to cross or give passes to win the game. That's Bernardo."
City might need to find a way to cope without the experienced midfielder, amid a growing belief he could look to leave the club in the summer transfer window. The Portugal international is out of contract at the end of the season with plenty of speculation over which side he might sign for next.
Barcelona are understood to be his dream destination, while there is also interest from several clubs in Saudi Arabia. It is also believed Bernardo would like to finish his playing career back at Portuguese club Benfica.
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