A sparkling preseason has opened the door for Bernardo Silva to stake his claim for a regular spot in Pep Guardiola’s lineup.
Silva, who featured in all three of Manchester City’s warm-up matches as well as the Community Shield, looks set to start against Arsenal on Sunday.
Initially Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva were the tipped partnership in the centre of midfield, however a prolonged rest for both players means the Portugal international should enter the fray for the Sky Blues’ season opener.
In a competitive squad, where Pep Guardiola has a plethora of options in attack, Bernardo Silva would do very well to fend off teammates Raheem Sterling and David Silva for consistency in the team.
However, the former Monaco title-winner has shown his impressive progress in preseason and if he performs well against Arsenal, perhaps Guardiola will be given something to ponder over.
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The signing of Riyad Mahrez looks to be a positive one, however in terms of places in the side, there is even more competition for the attacking spots.
Should Guardiola utilise his archetypal 4-1-4-1 formation, much easier now Benjamin Mendy is fit and ready to return, there is space for only five attackers in the lineup.
Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus have their own battle for the lone striker spot, and there are a number of midfielders who will have to sit out.
Bernardo Silva is in the firing line when David Silva is prepared for the campaign, which is why an eye-catching display against Arsenal is paramount.
Riyad Mahrez, Raheem Sterling, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin de Bruyne will contest the other spots. Hopefully the fierce jostling for position will drive Manchester City players to improve and develop each other, which can only be seen as a good thing.
Bernardo Silva looks to be the latest man to get his opportunity, and if he stands out he could certainly nail down a spot in the eleven.
Will Bernardo Silva become a Manchester City regular this season?