As Manchester City fought their way to a crucial 1-nil over Southampton at the Etihad yesterday one fact has become clear. Bernardo Silva is once again looming as Manchester City’s most important player during the early stages of this season. The Portuguese international was at his best yesterday in a man-of-the-match display against Russell Martin’s side.
As injuries have hit Manchester City’s squad Bernardo’s importance to the world champions has grown. His ability to play in a variety of roles has been critical to the world champions. With players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, Oscar Bobb and Rodri all unavailable Bernardo’s versatility is critical to Pep Guardiola’s side.
READ MORE: Injuries are just another challenge for Manchester City to overcome.
Yesterday, Bernardo Silva put in a superb display, playing mainly in midfield. The energy he provided was crucial to Manchester City’s 1-nil win. Playing alongside Mateo Kovacic in City’s midfield, the Portuguese international was City’s man-of-the-match, in my opinion. What Bernardo provides the world champions cannot be replaced. That was on full display yesterday at the Etihad. Without Bernardo being at his best Manchester City may have struggled to overcome Southampton. Besides his energy, Bernardo provides his immense technical ability was also on full display. One dazzling turn when Bernardo Silva appeared in trouble caught the eye.
Speaking post-game, Bernardo Silva was happy to see City pick up three points. At times, they were pushed by Southampton, who didn’t fold after Erling Haaland’s early goal. Speaking post-game, Bernardo said: “Tough game for us, but very happy with the three points. Now, we’re used to that when teams defend deep against us which makes it more difficult, we have to be patient. We are used to that. We had our chances to score three or four goals to make it, but they deserve a lot of credit for what they did here today.”
Bernardo Silva has become Manchester City’s most important player since the champions have lost a host of players to injury. That was apparent yesterday at the Etihad. The champions will be hoping that Bernardo’s form holds as they wait for players to return to full fitness.