City magician is still first through the door each morning to lead club by example
DAVID Silva may be one of the more veteran members of City’s squad, but the Spaniard still makes sure he is the first to turn up for training, even after 10 years.
The midfield magician will leave the club this summer after a decade at the Etihad during which he has won 13 trophies – including the Premier League four times – and has also enjoyed success for the Spain national team.
And Pep Guardiola has lifted the lid on his leadership qualities.
“Some people are leaders shouting and speaking a lot and others have their own way, giving the example,” said the City manager.
“And David always gives the example, being the first one arriving at the training sessions, never missing a gym session to prevent injuries or recovery.
“During training sessions nowadays being 34 he’s training like he was 22 or 24, even if I never meet him at that age, and this is the best example he can give to young people.”
This campaign will be Silva’s last in the Premier League, with the 34-year-old receiving plaudits from all over the football world and Guardiola believes he is one of the best to have ever pulled on a blue shirt.
“Himself and his generation of
players raise this club to another level when they got here.
“The ones who have come afterwards, we’ve tried to keep that level and make it higher,” the City boss said.
“All of this besides what he has achieved being part of this unique and one-in-a-lifetime generation and of Spanish footballers that won the World Cup and two Euros.
“I’d only say that he has to be proud for all that he has achieved in football because he has been consistent and especially at this club he will be always remembered as one of the biggest, biggest, biggest players ever.
“For sure, David is one of the top five players in the club’s history.”
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