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Bernardo Silva hails Manchester City teammates for defeating ‘fantastic’ Arsenal in Carabao Cup final

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Bernardo Silva hails Manchester City teammates for defeating ‘fantastic’ Arsenal in Carabao Cup final Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva has expressed his pride at his side’s performance in their 2-0 Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal on Sunday. Nico O’Reilly brought home the first piece of silverware in two seasons for his boyhood club with a four minute brace of headers in the second-half of a measured Manchester City display that got the better of the Premier League leaders. Alongside Rodri , the Portugal international was a composed and influential presence at the heart of City’s midfield throughout, providing the kind of calm, experienced leadership that Pep Guardiola ‘s side needed against a well-organised and high-quality Arsenal outfit – particularly in a difficult opening period that tested the Blues’ defensive resolve.

Speaking after the final whistle, Silva was aware of what the victory means for a Manchester City squad that has endured a challenging and at times frustrating campaign. Five Things Learned: Arsenal 0-2 Manchester City (Carabao Cup Final) Silva full of pride after beating ‘fantastic’ Arsenal The City skipper was quick to acknowledge the quality of the opposition, while making clear that the result was fully deserved on the balance of the afternoon’s play. “I’m really happy and proud of the boys,” Silva said.

“To beat this team is not easy. They’re a fantastic side. I try to help the team as much as possible.

“I know exactly the way the manager wants to play. I know the standards this club demands. I always try my best.

” It was a characteristically selfless assessment from a player who has been one of City’s most dependable performers throughout a turbulent season — a captain who leads by example rather than by volume, and whose understanding of Guardiola’s system remains as sharp as ever. Midfield brief was to provide stability Silva also shed light on the specific tactical role he and Rodri were asked to fulfil on the day, revealing that the priority was to offer a solid defensive foundation from which City’s attacking players could operate. “I think with the players we had today on the pitch, my job and Rodri’s was to give as much stability as we can to the team,” the 31-year-old added.

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