“He is a player that is beyond good in all departments – solidarity, intelligence, he understands everything” And more intelligent than Kelvin De Bruyne – Pep Guardiola hails “irreplaceable” Man City star after Manchester derby win

Despite being linked with Barcelona, Pep Guardiola has termed Bernardo Silva as “irreplaceable” at Manchester City.

Silva, 29, began and ended City’s 3-0 triumph over Manchester United on Sunday. Erling Haaland scored twice, with Silva setting up the second, before Phil Foden put the game away. City now trail Premier League leaders Tottenham by two points.

After the game on Sunday, Guardiola heaped praise on Silva. The Portugal international has been an integral part of City’s success under Spanish manager Pep Guardiola, but he might leave the Etihad next summer, with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain interested.

Guardiola has always stated his intention to keep Silva, who signed a new three-year contract in August. However, it has been reported that the deal has a £50 million release clause that may be exercised next summer, allowing him to seek a new challenge.

Despite the fact that speculation about Silva’s future will continue to dominate the back pages, Guardiola is delighted he’s still around. “I could stay here for ten minutes and talk about what Bernardo Silva means to me and our team,” City manager Pep Guardiola told reporters. “He is a player who excels in all areas – solidarity, intelligence, he understands everything.”

“We’re madly in love with him.” The issue is that he does not own a large car and does not dress in high fashion. He is humble, and everyone in the locker room adores him. We were fortunate not to lose him. He cannot be replaced. I know he’s content here.”

Guardiola was named as City’s manager in July 2016, although he failed to win any awards in his first season. Silva came from Monaco with an initial fee of £43.5 million in May 2017, just weeks after winning the Ligue 1 title.

Silva has since appeared in almost 300 games for Guardiola’s team, winning 15 trophies, including five Premier League crowns. One of the reasons Guardiola regards him so highly is his flexibility to play in central midfield, on the wing, or even at full-back.

Silva will find it difficult to quit City if they continue to win at locations like Old Trafford. “Definitely one of the best wins here (at City), especially away from home,” Silva said, according to the club’s website. “At home, it’s a little bit easier because we have a crowd behind us.”

“They get us going, they generate energy for us.” To win here 3-0 in front of this crowd, I believe it was one of our best performances in the past. When we visit venues like Anfield and Old Trafford, we know what teams are expecting… I’m overjoyed with the three points. Coming here and defeating this team is never easy.