Fantastic Self-Confidence

Pep Guardiola says Bernardo Silva is one of the most special footballers he has ever coached despite the midfielder’s dip in form this season – something for which the Manchester City boss takes his share of responsibility. Silva was voted City’s player of the season as he and his team-mates swept to a domestic treble in 2018-19, but his performances this time around have been indicative of a general malaise, with Liverpool storming clear of their rivals to claim the Premier League title. The Portugal international has featured infrequently in the right-sided attacking midfield position he occupied for a chunk of last term, with Kevin De Bruyne back to full fitness and in prime form. Similarly adept on the right-hand side of attack, Silva has found his path blocked by Riyad Mahrez and, mor...