Liverpool travel to Manchester City on Sunday with a clearer idea of what Pep Guardiola’s squad could look like — and the biggest doubt appears to be Bernardo Silva.
The 31-year-old missed City’s midweek win over Newcastle, and Guardiola didn’t sound confident that his captain will be fit in time to face Liverpool.
Speaking after the match, Guardiola admitted there’s real uncertainty over Silva’s condition, even though he highlighted the midfielder’s determination to play through pain.
“I don’t know. Bernardo is special. We’ll see… He’s an incredible doubt. Knowing him he will try but right now I don’t know.”
That update feels more serious than a normal rotation call, especially with Guardiola describing the problem as a back muscle issue — not the kind of injury managers usually brush off as a short-term niggle.
City’s schedule has been relentless, and they’ve already had an extra game this week, beating Newcastle 3-1 to seal a 5-1 aggregate win and reach the Carabao Cup final.
That matters for Liverpool because fatigue often shows first in pressing, recovery runs, and overall intensity — areas where Bernardo Silva is one of Guardiola’s most important players.
While Silva hasn’t been a major goal threat this season, his impact has been in control and creativity, registering four assists, an xA of 2.13, 90% pass accuracy, and six big chances created.
Silva isn’t the only fitness concern City are dealing with, but his possible absence would be a big blow. He’s one of Guardiola’s most trusted players in tight spaces, someone who can manage tempo, keep attacks flowing, and do the hard work when City lose possession.
From Liverpool’s side, injuries have also affected selection recently, with Arne Slot providing updates on seven different players ahead of Newcastle. There’s also ongoing concern over Conor Bradley, with Ben Dinnery suggesting his knee problem could potentially keep him out deep into the year.
That’s why any uncertainty in City’s squad feels important, especially with Liverpool already working with fine margins defensively — even after the 4-1 comeback win over Newcastle lifted belief again.
For now, the main point is clear: Guardiola has not confirmed Bernardo Silva will be ready, and Liverpool will treat him as a genuine doubt until the team news arrives on Sunday
