Pep Guardiola ignores Cristiano Ronaldo, labelling Manchester City's Bernardo Silva as Portugal's biggest star
The Catalan said that he is 'privileged' to coach Bernardo, the diminutive playmaker signed from Monaco
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Your support makes all the difference.Pep Guardiola has claimed that Bernardo Silva has surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo as Portugal's biggest star.
The 24-year-old playmaker has been a key part of Manchester City's success since signing from Monaco in the summer of 2017. Signed for his technical aptitude, Bernardo has particularly shone with his work rate and attittude, culminating in an all-action display in the potentially season-defining win over Liverpool in January where he ran further than any player has in a Premier League game this season.
Such effort hasn't escaped Guardiola's notice, and when asked if Bernardo could become the biggest star in the Portuguese national team - presumably with five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo as number one - the Man City coach claimed that Bernardo has already surpassed all his compatriots.
"He is the biggest star already, he already has everything," Guardiola said.
"He is a lovely person. He never makes a bad face. He’s the guy in the locker room who is most loved.
"He is very talented. He can play in three or four positions.
"I think, this season, he is one of the best players in the Premier League. He is a joy for a manager. I am a lucky guy to have Bernardo in my hands, in every training session and every game.
"I love him. Simple as that."
Guardiola's men are currently top the Premier League on goal difference and though Liverpool have a game in hand, this weekend's trip to Old Trafford may prove pivotal in the title race.
Man City, who were one of the Premier League's best-ever champions last season (see below) are chasing back-to-back titles under Guardiola.
Their main goal, however, continues to be the Champions League.
City can take a big step towards the quarter-finals of Europe's premier club competition with a win over Schalke in Gelsenkirchen tonight.
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