When Manchester City moved on from their previous all-time greats in recent years, many could argue a strong case for the time and place being the perfect moment to part ways. Guardiola has continuously trusted Bernardo at the heart of his operation, even in matches many would presume to be intense in the way of running demands across 90 minutes. His intelligence and awareness, as well as longevity, proved most vital in the recent 2-1 win at Liverpool, and once again on Saturday night as City defeated Newcastle 2-1. Leading the line through his own individual pressing at times, it was Silva's experience and fight for the cause that inspired Manchester City to get over the line in a must-win game following Arsenal's slip-up at Wolves just days earlier. And perhaps thinking further ahead, could the continuity of Silva into another season inspire Guardiola to see out his own contract amid ongoing media conversation around a potential early exit from Manchester City this summer?

Source: BBC February 25, 2026 05:59 UTC