'We are in love with him' - Pep Guardiola says Manchester City were 'lucky' to keep Bernardo Silva

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that Bernardo Silva is “beyond good” in every respect and “we are in love with him.”

Silva was awarded the player-of-the-match award after his side’s 3-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday in the Premier League, in a comprehensive victory for the current champions.

The 29-year-old playmaker has been linked with a move to Spain in recent years but he remains a vital part of the City line-up, as demonstrated once more at Old Trafford.

His importance is highlighted further by the continued absence of Kevin De Bruyne due to injury, and speaking to Sky Sports, Guardiola effusive in his praise.

He said: "I could stay here and talk for 10 minutes on what Bernardo Silva means for me and our team. He is a player that is beyond good in all departments - solidarity, intelligence, he understands everything. We are in love with him.

"The problem is he has no big cars, he dress maybe not for high style. He is humble and everybody loves him in the locker room. We were lucky not to lose him. He is irreplaceable. I know he is happy here."

Guardiola also reflected on the change that his side had made over the years as they became the dominant Manchester team.

He noted: "We always have a good feeling here. The players played their best and I am really pleased for our fans, I know what it means to them.

"For many years, when Sir Alex (Ferguson) was here they see United up there and in the last few years we changed the tendency.

"After the first 5-10 minutes when we lose balls against a team that is so dangerous like that we take control and after the second goal make a fantastic game."

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