Manchester City 1-2 Manchester United: 5 Talking points & Tactical Analysis

#4 Bernardo Silva uncharacteristically fails to turn up

Across Manchester City’s twin title-winning campaigns, Bernardo Silva cast himself as perhaps Guardiola’s most trusted lieutenant, courtesy his ability to double up as a central midfielder and a winger. Unsurprisingly, the Portuguese has started the majority of clutch clashes, with his exceptional work-rate also aiding his credentials. However, on Saturday, the midfielder turned in a timid performance.

Starting on the right flank, the Portuguese tried to beat Luke Shaw numerous times but failed on most occasions as the Englishman held his ground. Besides, Bernardo failed to influence proceedings whenever he ventured in-field, meaning that the brunt of creative responsibility fell on De Bruyne.

And, though the midfielder did his fair share of defensive work, he was probably guilty of being a little too over-eager at the end of the first quarter of the game.

After Rashford had danced his way past a couple of challenges, he made his way into the penalty area where Bernardo dangled a leg, caught the striker near his thigh and brought him down. The resulting penalty was put away and it laid the foundation for an improbable United victory.

Over the past eighteen months, Bernardo has rarely put a foot wrong on the field, especially when plying his trade against the top clubs. Yet, at the Etihad, he arguably took a step too far in the box, only to consign his team to several strides backwards.