- Haaland reacts to Bernardo Silva exit
- Points to past departures at Man City
- Calls on new players to step up
Erling Haaland has sent a clear message on replacing Bernardo Silva, who recently announced his Manchester City departure.
Bernardo Silva recently announced his Manchester City exit, as the Portuguese international will see his contract expire at the end of the season.
With no renewal in sight, Silva sent an emotional message to his fans online. Erling Haaland was one of the first to react, as the striker talked about the midfielder’s importance during an interview where he previewed the upcoming game against Arsenal.
Now, the striker has given some additional comments, and this time he tas told he media about replacing Silva, as well as mentioning some recent departures which have changed the club.
Erling Haaland on replacing Bernardo Silva
The Norwegian striker is clearly seeing a big transition at City, with so many players having left the Etihad Stadium since his arrival four years ago.
Haaland is stuck in the middle, as he was brought in to be a part of the new generation of City stars, while still playing alongside the old ones initially.
“It’s a generation that won plenty of trophies, but everything comes to an end someday. Since I came to Man City, plenty of players left”, Haaland told ESPN.
The 25-year-old also talked about Kyle Walker, who left a big gap on the right flank after his exit. Kevin De Bruyne was also mentioned, who has cemented himself as a club legend.
“Last season was Kyle Walker and Kevin [De Bruyne], amazing players and did so amazing. Then it’s about the club replacing these and for new players to take responsibility and help the club towards the right direction, winning trophies.”
Bernardo Silva’s legacy
With 451 appearances and 32,290 minutes played, Silva has been one of the most used players under Pep Guardiola.
The 31-year-old has scored 76 goals to date for City and assisted 77 times across competition. Silva has also won 19 trophies, being at the club for each of Guardiola’s triumphs.
Interestingly, Guardiola’s time is also rumoured to be coming to an end, and both of their departures would truly mark the end of an era, as Haaland suggests.
Silva remains a core part of City’s setup
Despite playing in his last season, Silva is still one of the key players for the club right now. He has made 27 starts in the Premier League this season, clocking 2,335 minutes.
Completing 90.3 per cent of his passes successfully per 90, the midfielder is still elite even at 31. Also, Silva has only been dispossessed once on average per 90 in the Premier League this season.
All in all, Silva’s game has maintained its level even after nine seasons at the club. However, with the player set to depart this summer, the Sky Blues will be on the lookout for a new midfield maestro to help control matches.
