Pep Guardiola hails “irreplaceable” Man City midfielder after starring in Man Utd win

Pep Guardiola hailed the “irreplaceable” Bernardo Silva after his starring role in Manchester City’s dominant derby win at Old Trafford.

The treble-winners secured their first win at Old Trafford since 2021 on Sunday afternoon, thumping Manchester United 3-0, courtesy of an Erling Haaland brace and a late strike from Phil Foden.

Haaland rolled the Sky Blues into the lead from the penalty spot midway through the first-half, prior to doubling Manchester City’s advantage with a climbing header early into the second-half.

The Norwegian, who has now scored five goals against Manchester United, turned provider in the 80th minute, setting up Phil Foden for a tap-in, following Rodri’s effort being parried by Andre Onana.

Manchester City’s victory moves the Blues back to within two points of Premier League leaders Tottenham, with Pep Guardiola’s side also registering their first clean sheet since September, with the dominant 3-0 win.

Post-match, Guardiola was quick to praise midfielder Bernardo Silva, who orchestrated a metronomic Manchester City win at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

“He is irreplaceable,” hailed Guardiola when asked about the Portugal midfielder at full-time.

“No big cars, he dresses… not… everybody loves him in the locker room. We were scared to lose him [in the summer]. He is irreplaceable.”

“I could take 10 minutes talking about what Bernardo Silva means for me and this team. He is a player that is beyond good. We are in love with him!”

Silva, who had been linked with a potential exit from Manchester City during the summer transfer window, penned a new contract at the Etihad Stadium in August, ending months of speculation.

The 29-year-old has made nine appearances for Manchester City so far this season, and featured in his 14th Manchester Derby on Sunday afternoon.