Midfield report card: De Bruyne the best; Gundogan, Fernandinho solid
By Cody Griffin
![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) 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)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/d611087cea167f80f90cfdcdd791ed880361410c835f7ed4aa50144b8447b9ec.jpg)
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.