Manchester City lost 4-3 to Al-Hilal in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Club World Cup on Monday, June 30.
Their exit from the tournament marks another failed title run after enduring a trophy-less 2024/25 season. However, as they bowed out, the rejuvenated Bernardo Silva gave Pep Guardiola’s team a reason to smile.
Bernardo scored the opening goal against Al-Hilal, thereby taking his tally in the tournament to four goals.
The 30-year-old Portuguese midfielder had a forgettable 2024/25 season, but seems to be gradually getting back to his best.
His off-form was one of the reasons behind the Cityzens’ relatively poor performance last season and Guardiola will be happy to see him regain it.
Bernardo Silva: A Victim of His Own Versatility
Silva has played in more than 400 matches for the Cityzens after Guardiola signed him in 2017. He has scored 73 goals and registered just as many assists for the club so far, which firmly puts him among the greatest players to have played for it.
However, with five goals in 49 matches last season, Silva failed to do justice to his reputation as a player.
He has partially suffered because of his versatility as a player, which has made Guardiola play him in a variety of positions.
The Portuguese has played as a central attacking midfielder in a 3-2-4-1 and has also played in the double-pivot at times and even as a holding midfielder, aiding the defence. His ability to cut inside with his left foot has also seen him be deployed as a right-winger at times.
It will not be an exaggeration to say that Bernardo Silva is the most versatile of all Manchester City players. Therefore, he has often had to make adjustments as far as his playing position is concerned.
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Club World Cup Sets the Stage for Bernardo Silva’s Return to Form
Bernardo scored a hat-trick against Juventus at the Club World Cup, as the Cityzens romped home with a 5-2 victory.
He has looked in ominous touch in the tournament, effortlessly linking with other midfielders as well as Erling Haaland.
The Portuguese’s contract with Manchester City expires in June 2026. It will be interesting to see whether the Cityzens allow him to leave on a free transfer or renew his contract, as he will be 31 by then.
Manchester City are already going towards a rebuild, and hence, it remains to be seen whether Bernardo is a part of their future plans. As of now, he remains a top midfielder and one of the most important players in their set-up.
Still, with Ryan Cherki coming into the team and Phil Foden already there, there will be stiff competition for the two central attacking midfielders spots next season.
Bernardo will have to fight it out and come up with good performances to stake his claim. He might also play as the right-winger if Savinho does not fire properly.
It can be said without any doubt that his performance will be key to Manchester City’s form next season in the Premier League and other competitions.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Sportimage
Recording Date: 30.06.2025