Manchester City Playmaker Has Offered Himself To Barcelona: Should Guardiola Cash In? | OneFootball

In a recent report Sky Sports has mentioned that Manchester City Playmaker Bernardo Silva has offered himself to Barcelona amid heavy interest from the Catalan club. It was understood that Guardiola believed Silva’s immediate future was with the Sky Blues despite the Spanish giants being keen on signing him, but now it is taking a different turn altogether.

Silva’s Impressive Campaign For Manchester City Last Season

Silva had a solid campaign last season when he managed to produce some influential displays at a high level as a key member of Guardiola’s starting XI. He appeared in over 50 matches for the Mancunian giants last season, scoring 13 goals and creating seven assists across all competitions.

The Portuguese sensation performed consistently for Man City on the attacking end of the field as he averaged 1.3 shots, 1.7 key passes, 1.6 tackles, 0.5 interceptions and 1.5 dribbles per game in Premier League football. He even took care of the ball distribution in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 89.6% in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).

MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 13: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg Two match between Atletico Madrid and Manchester City at Wanda Metropolitano on April 13, 2022, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) The 4th Official uses images provided by the following image agency: Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/) Imago Images (https://www.imago-images.de/)

Should Guardiola Cash In On Him?

Bernardo Silva has made his presence felt in the central areas of the pitch last season. He excels at getting past defenders with his agility and excellent ball control. To add to that, he can also create some clear-cut goal-scoring chances in the attacking third finding his teammates with his impressive vision. Furthermore, he does well to win the ball from the opposition and has a high defensive work rate.

The Portuguese midfielder primarily plays in the holding position but remains versatile enough to feature anywhere over the frontline. He has been a key player in the midfield for Guardiola and with Haaland at strike, the Portugal international would provide a lot of support.

A player of his calibre would make a significant difference during important games and will add more depth and bring more competition to Guardiola’s midfield. The Spanish tactician would be wise to keep him at the Etihad stadium and he should do everything he is capable of to make him stay.