Why Manchester City need to keep Bernardo Silva at the Etihad Stadium

Possibly Manchester City’s hardest worker, few players in the Premier League have covered as much distance as Bernardo Silva this season. The 24-year-old has always had to fight for his place in the team, and it has been the same at either AS Monaco or even now at Manchester City. But it’s that aggression and determination that sets apart the Portuguese star from the other Cityzens at the Etihad Stadium.

Lovingly called Messizinho by the Portuguese media, Manchester City should in no way let Real Madrid get Bernardo Silva, amid reports from the Mirror. Los Blancos are looking for a long-term replacement for Luka Modric and believe that the former Monaco star is their man. They have reportedly offered a fee of around £70million for the talented midfielder, but Manchester City are in no hurry to sell.

Like Real Madrid, the Blue side of Manchester also see Bernardo Silva as a long-term replacement for Spaniard David Silva and it’s no surprise why. While the 24-year-old’s work-rate and determination make him a key star, it’s his other abilities that have been crucial to Manchester City doing well. Supremely intelligent with exceptional technical ability, the City man has been at his best for the club this season.

While he only managed to produce 14 goals in 29 appearances so far this season, it’s his on-field performances that have attracted the world’s attention.

Silva so far has been one of the main reasons that Manchester City are still in the race for the Premier League title, despite losing Kevin De Bruyne to an injury at the start of the season. The Portuguese star walked right in and has looked at home, weaving and darting between defenders, before picking team-mates out with gorgeous passes.

His unpredictability always adds a touch of drama that City fans seem to love and there are a few players in the world at the moment who can replace Bernardo Silva. While the 24-year-old will fetch a great transfer fee, it certainly isn’t worth it for Manchester City especially if they keep hoping that the Portuguese star will replace David Silva.

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Like Modric himself, the Spaniard is not getting any younger but is certainly ageing gracefully. His talent and ability on the ball haven’t reduced one bit, but watching Bernardo Silva play this season, few Manchester City fans will say that the 24-year-old isn’t a bonafide replacement.