Guardiola pays a heartfelt tribute to Riyad Mahrez

In partnership with

Foot Africa

·24 ottobre 2025

Guardiola pays a heartfelt tribute to Riyad Mahrez

Pep Guardiola has not forgotten Riyad Mahrez

Guardiola pays a heartfelt tribute to Riyad Mahrez

OneFootball Video

The brilliance of Bernardo Silva continues to amaze Pep Guardiola. Delivering a sparkling performance against Villarreal in the Champions League, the Portuguese midfielder scored with a header—a rare and symbolic gesture for a player of his profile. His display once again reminded his manager why he considers him a “unique” footballer.

In a press conference, Guardiola did not hide his admiration:

“Bernardo scored a magnificent header. He reminds me of Mahrez and even Messi. They are not very tall, but their sense of timing, their reading of the game, and their precision are simply incredible.” A flattering comparison coming from a coach who has led both icons at the peak of their powers.

Intelligence over stature

For Guardiola, technique and understanding of the game outweigh physical attributes, and Bernardo Silva is the perfect embodiment of this philosophy. Quiet yet formidable, he has become a key piece in Manchester City’s tactical balance, capable of operating in multiple areas of the pitch with unsettling ease.

Since the departures of Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne, the Portuguese star has taken on even more responsibility, proving his influence on the team match after match. At 31, Bernardo is arguably reaching the pinnacle of his craft, with performances that confirm he is much more than just a cog in the system—he is the creative soul of a City side that becomes ever more irresistible.