Bernardo Silva believes that the Manchester derby holds the key to Manchester City’s title hopes.
The Blues midfielder was brilliant in the 1-0 win over Tottenham that put City top ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Cardiff today.
But Wednesday night sees City use up their game in hand and – dramatically enough – it comes in a clash with old enemy Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Title races as tight as that between City and Jurgen Klopp’s team normally produce twists and turns in the closing stages, but Bernardo feels Liverpool will not slip up again – so the Blues need to secure four wins from four to clinch back-to-back crowns.
“It’s another massive game that we know we need to win as Liverpool will probably win all the games they have left in the Premier League,” said Bernardo.
“If we want to win the title we need to win all of ours.
“We only depend on ourselves but they depend on us and we want to try to keep it that way.
“It’s a big game for us, big game for United - they need points to be in the top four and we need them to fight for the title.
“So we expect a very difficult game against one of the best sides in England.
“They will be motivated to beat us and we look forward to it.”
There is a view that derbies these days are not the ferocious affairs they used to be, partly because of the tightening of the law on tackles and partly because the influx of foreign players has diluted the local passion.
But Bernardo claims Wednesday will not just be another big game against a top team.
“A derby is always different, always a more emotional game.
“They are special to the fans, and we feel it. I’m looking forward to it – players enjoy these games the most.
“They are all important, but big games against the best teams are always the best games to play.
“We know we need the win, and the pressure is on – but that’s a good thing.”
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City bounced back from their Champions League exit in midweek, roared on by their support, and it felt like defeat has forged a real togetherness between players and fans.
“They were amazing, the way they pushed us to get this win,” said Bernardo. “It was unbelievable, their support, after us going out of the Champions League.
“It was a massive win, very important for us, especially after the defeat in the Champions League.
“We wanted to give a response with our fans here at home. We knew how important it was for them to keep the title race alive and to be top of the league again.
“We are so happy with the win and now it’s on to another tough one against Manchester United which I think will be crucial for the title.”
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