Pep Guardiola says he hopes Bernardo can stay for ‘many centuries’ after the skipper fought tooth and nail to help City gain a two-goal advantage over Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final, first leg.
The Portuguese, who has now made his way into the Club’s all-time appearance top 10, was the epitome of desire and fighting spirit throughout at St James’ Park.
And his manager couldn’t be more impressed.
“Today, again you cannot imagine what a player Bernardo Silva is,” said Pep.
“This player will be missed, but hopefully he can stay for many centuries.
“That guy knows what it is to play football and to be a competitor. He knows the rules, absolutely everything.”
And the boss was also asked about the performance of new signing Antoine Semenyo, who made it two goals in two games with the opener against the Magpies.
“I think what Bournemouth have done under Iraola -I think they improved a lot these kind of scrappy goals,” he said.
“In the opposite side right to the box, Leroy [Sane] and Raheem [Sterling] especially were good at that.
“Jeremy, we always push and say you have to arrive to the box. Of course when Phil or Bernardo play in that position it’s another situation.
“We always encourage the wingers to arrive there. It’s really important to score and it’s no secret you have to bring people in front of the goal.
“In the second half [Semenyo] was much better, with his physicality he helped us defensively.
“We have to better. That’s why we [have been] champions a lot. We never complain but today I did. I like it and inside it has to be better in all aspects.
“And today we had difficulties with injuries and many things, and we make a step up.”
On the controversial VAR decision to disallow Semenyo’s second goal, the boss added: “I think [my players] were angry. For the one action, the momentum immediately went to Newcastle and they were angry. [about that] .
“In these cup competitions, and these semi-finals, or any competition you have to play in that way. It may be it helped us.
“Rico came up and Rayan came up. Rayan Ait-Nouri came from AFCON.
“Everyone made their contribution. The same as last FA Cup game or against Chelsea and Sunderland and Brighton and I know it’s a pity because the games we played was really good, but we didn’t score But were there.
“The spirit is there. I smell it any every training session.”
City v Newcastle Second leg tickets available!
See the conclusion of what promises to be a thrilling final four tie at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 4 February.
Newcastle are the holders of the Carabao Cup and will be determined to hold on their crown, while City are seeking a ninth success in League Cup history.
Tickets start from £20 for adults and £10 for concessions, while a wide of hospitality packages are also on offer to make it a special occasion!
*Tickets on sale to Season Ticket Members and Official Members who have previously attended at least one fixture at the Etihad Stadium.
