Midfield report card: De Bruyne the best; Gundogan, Fernandinho solid

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GRANADA, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 12: David Silva of Spain in action during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Spain and FYR Macedonia at Estadio Nuevos los Carmenes on November 12, 2016 in Granada, . (Photo by Aitor Alcalde Colomer/Getty Images) /

David Silva – Grade B

David Silva is City’s maestro. Able to play at several different midfield positions for the team, Silva is a model of versatility despite his small stature. He’s struggled a bit playing as a deeper-lying midfield because of his lack of physicality. However, he still helps dictate City’s attacking buildup and stars in a left-side or central attacking role.

There have been several games where Silva has seemed a bit slower than usual this season and has stood out a bit less. I still believe that we are much more confident in possession and in buildup play when the club’s on-field Merlin is on the pitch. With two assists in 11 Premier League appearances, Silva remains integral.