After Bernardo’s performance on Sunday, this could be the most difficult challenge Guardiola has seen at Man City.

Bernardo Silva in action for Manchester City vs Aston Villa (Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)

When news broke that Joao Cancelo was on the verge of moving to Bayern Munich, it was an initial shock.

But when the dust had settled, it was clear that Pep Guardiola had once again proved that he was a man of his word. Time and time again, the Catalan boss has set an example that he will not stand in the way of any player that wishes to leave.

Cancelo was no different and even though Manchester City looked to lack depth in the full-back position, one man stepped up to the plate on Sunday to justify Guardiola’s decision. Bernardo Silva frequently dropped deep into the backline to help Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte, creating a defensive four.

His work rate was first class and personified the desire and heart that City need to showcase both on and off the pitch in the coming weeks, months and years to come. However, the problem for Guardiola is that his noble approach to transfer demands could be put to the test by the Portuguese midfielder in the summer.

Bernardo has made no secret about his wishes to leave City in the past. To date, the Blues have always managed to convince him to stay.

There is an understanding between the player and the head coach that he is still a crucial member of this team and that was highlighted clearly this weekend. However, considering the instability which has been created by the Premier League, the 28-year-old might think now is the right time to move to pastures new.

From Guardiola’s perspective though, players like Bernardo are like gold dust. At the top level, there is not an abundance of options for players who can perform in two positions expertly so finding a replacement would be difficult.

Against Aston Villa, the former Benfica man showed that he has that capability. If Bernardo was to ask to leave City again at the end of the season, Guardiola would not be able to stand in his way without breaking the standard which he has set.

Guardiola will still be keen for Bernardo to see out the remainder of his contract at the Etihad moving forwards and that is why the 28-year-old could prove to be the biggest test to the manager’s theory to date. Should he want to leave, there is very little the 52-year-old can do no matter how much he wishes otherwise.

source: www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk