Pep Guardiola & Lionel Messi Helped Bernardo Silva Go Through a ‘Difficult’ Phrase at Benfica Before Joining Manchester City

During challenging moments, athletes often draw inspiration from their idols, finding the confidence to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. Manchester City’s playmaker, Bernardo Silva, faced a troublesome phase at Benfica. Yet he attributes his success to the influence of Pep Guardiola and Lionel Messi before joining the Premier League giants in a fascinating narrative. 

The 29-year-old attacking midfielder thrived under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, establishing himself as a standout figure in recent years. His journey has endeared him to the loyal Manchester City fanbase, cementing his place as a favorite among the City faithful.

Bernardo Silva thanks Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola for helping him bloom!

Numerous soccer players have achieved success not solely through physical prowess but by leveraging their other exceptional abilities. Among them stands Manchester City’s star, Bernardo Silva. During his time at Benfica, he admitted he wasn’t as physically strong as some teammates. During that very moment, he drew inspiration from Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona team.

The attacking midfielder said, “When I was younger and saw that Barcelona team of little kids, Xavi and Iniesta, Messi and all those players, coached by Pep, it was an inspiration for me. Inspiration because it came at a time when I wasn’t playing for Benfica as I wasn’t physically as strong as my teammates.”

The Manchester City star revealed he almost didn’t break into the first team for years. In those trepid times, he drew inspiration from Barcelona’s style under the Spanish coach. Bernardo Silva revealed his long-held dream was to be coached by Pep Guardiola. That aspiration played a pivotal role in his decision to join Manchester City, marking it as one of the primary reasons behind his choice.

Additionally, the Portuguese playmaker even accepted to play out of position because Pep asked him to play against Arsenal.

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Bernardo Silva shares a throwback moment playing against Bukayo Saka

Pep Guardiola is famous for nurturing the careers of numerous current soccer icons. Additionally, the 52-year-old tactician excels in extracting optimal performances from players, even when they’re deployed out of their customary positions. This proficiency was notably demonstrated with Bernardo Silva. Last season, Guardiola positioned him at left-back to counter the threat posed by Bukayo Saka, one of the finest wingers in the league.

Nevertheless, what seemed an unconventional decision became a masterstroke, resulting in a decisive 3-1 victory. Reflecting on that pivotal game, Silva described it as a crazy moment, one he intends to cherish forever.

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There is no doubt that the Barcelona team, managed by Pep Guardiola with stars like Lionel Messi, is one of the best in history. But the Manchester City team is something special! What were your favorite memories of the team? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.