When you think of the word “underrated” and relate it with the Premier League, you immediately think of a number of players. However, there is one player who, nearly always, travels under the radar of fans and pundits alike, it’s David Silva. He is truly an underrated gem.
A] David arrives in Manchester:
When David Silva arrived in England at the age of 23, he had the demeanour of a humble, shy Valencian. Everyone thought he was too little and weak to play in the Premier League. They insisted there was no way he can handle the physicality of the premier league. But after ten glorious years in the blue part of Manchester, David Silva proved everyone wrong.
David Silva’s nickname, ‘El Mago,’ (Spanish for “magician”), is a wonderful fit for him. Because magic is what he does when he is playing on that Etihad pitch. David Silva is applauded by many great players for being one of the best in business.
B] Testimony of the greats:
Xavi Hernandez, who made more than 700 appearances for Barcelona once said, “David Silva is one of the most talented players that Spain has ever produced – without a shadow of a doubt”
Pep on the other hand when told to sum up David Silva’s career for Man City had this to say – “Extraordinary. The number of games, the huge quality in the games he played, the titles he helped win…he’s alongside five or six others who made this Club what it is now. “And this club will always be grateful.”
David Silva was part of the initial investment made by new owners of Man City. He is one of the core reasons why Manchester City is what it is today. He has played under multiple managers and he has always delivered on the pitch when it mattered.
C] Partnership with Aguero and beyond:
His link-up play with Sergio Aguero has wreaked havoc on Premier League opponents over the years. Sergio Aguero has had 21 assists from David Silva in the Premier League. Only Frank Lampard (24 for Didier Drogba) has set up a teammate more in the competition’s history. David Silva was already a valuable member of Manchester City’s midfield, but after Pep Guardiola took over, he improved even further. David Silva suited the tactics and explosive offensive playstyle disposed by Guardiola. His connection with Keven De Bruyne helped the team to even greater heights.
D] What made him Special:
David Silva may not have set any goals or assist records. But his brilliance and dexterity extend beyond the statistics. David Silva is possibly the best in the world at delivering a sharp, accurate, and timed ball to his partner. Silva used a single laser-sharp through ball to break down the opponents’ defenses. It always felt like he had an additional second or two when the ball was at his feet. Effortless, fashionable, and truly magical.
At the end of the day, David Silva has done everything at City. In ten seasons, he scored 76 goals, added 124 assists, and won 11 trophies. The only trophy he hasn’t won with Manchester City is the Champions League. Nonetheless the illustrious career he has had, many others would ache for a career like that. Even if there is no Champions League in it!
After leaving Manchester City, David Silva now plays for Real Sociedad in La Liga.
