“We were never there” – Bernardo Silva issues scathing assessment of Manchester derby | OneFootball

Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva did not pull any punches in his verdict on a 2-0 defeat to local rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday.

City’s 2026 winless run in the Premier League extended to four games in a trip across town as second-half goals from Bryan Mbuemo and Patrick Dorgu succumbed Pep Guardiola to a first defeat in 14 games in all competitions.

Guardiola’s side were at their pitiful worst, second-best in all departments from start to finish as Michael Carrick began his second caretaker stint at Manchester United in flying fashion.

The visitors were missing a series of key players across the pitch but personnel issues are no justification for Manchester City’s dreadful display at the home of their bitter rivals – a venue where the Blues have enjoyed great success under Guardiola.

City’s latest setback has great ramifications on the title race, although Mikel Arteta and Arsenal will be gutted after again failing to take full advantage of their title rivals’ slump – after the Gunners were held to a goalless draw by Nottingham Forest on Saturday night.

Arsenal now stand seven points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, with major doubts over whether Guardiola and co – despite their wealth of experience and trophy cabinet – can turn the ship around and close the gap to the north Londoners.

In conversation with the club’s official channels after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester United, Manchester City skipper Bernardo Silva laid into his side’s toothless performance as their title hopes were dealt another blow.

“They deserved to win,” said Silva. “They had more energy, intention. It always felt like they were close to score, we were never there. We gave them what they want.

“They took the game to where they’re good and we’re not so good. Since I arrived in England we’ve always been very controlled.

“There was a lot of things missing. Definitely a bad day. I don’t think we have any excuses. It was a really bad performance.”

On the title race, Silva added: “It’s a big gap (seven points), we won’t lie and say it isn’t – it is. We’ll fight until the end.”

Manchester City will welcome Crystal Palace captain and England international Marc Guehi to their ranks next week, with an upcoming UEFA Champions League group-stage clash against Bodø/Glimt providing the perfect chance to restore confidence in the camp.