Bernardo Silva Calls for Common Sense Over Manchester City Fixture List

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva has spoken out after the team’s draw against Arsenal, urging football authorities to use more common sense when scheduling big matches.

WHAT BERNARDO SILVA SAID

After a hard-fought match at the Emirates, Bernardo Silva addressed reporters about the busy schedule facing Manchester City.

He said: “We don’t mind playing every three or four days, don’t mind playing 60 games. But what we ask for is common sense for one of the biggest games of the season.”

He added that he does not believe there is any attempt to hinder City’s results, saying: “It could happen to Arsenal or Liverpool in a few months.”

DETAILS ON CITY’S SEASON SO FAR

Manchester City currently sits in 10th place in the Premier League table with just seven points after their first five matches, facing criticism for their performance and results this season.The recent draw against Arsenal leaves them with one draw and two losses so far this season. Silva has started all matches, providing two assists and playing an important role in controlling games from midfield.

Arsenal, after their draw, remain third in the table. Liverpool, who won their match this weekend, continue to set the pace.

SCHEDULING AND WHAT LIES AHEAD

The debate over heavy fixture congestion is nothing new, but Silva’s comments have brought fresh focus on the demands placed on top players.

City’s next match is a Carabao Cup fixture against Huddersfield, who are from a lower tier and should pose minimal threat even if Guardiola rotates his side quite significantly.

They then take on Burnley, who are chasing a safe spot and sit just three points behind City in the league, before facing Monaco for the Champions League.

With the standings so tight at the top, every match is (in theory) hugely important.

Similar scheduling issues could soon affect City rivals Arsenal, who travel to league leaders Newcastle next, and Liverpool, who are away to Crystal Palace.

The close margins in the title race mean fixture management could become (or is already) critical in the coming months.