SILVA: GUARDIOLA'S TENURE GIVES ME FREEDOM
David Silva reveals his joy under Pep Guardiola and believes Manchester City's early season form is as a result of the freedom the Catalan guarantees the team.
Silva has been playing in a slightly deeper role since Guardiola replaced Manuel Pellegrini as the coach of Manchester City, with the team having won 10, drawn one and lost one of their 12 competitive matches this season.
"It is true that I am playing some steps further back sometimes because I have to help in the build-up," the midfielder told reporters. But Guardiola also gives me freedom to attack more and be close to the rival goal, and create chances which is something that I really like. He gives me a lot of freedom and I am very happy playing in this role,” the Spaniard said.
"The manager wants us to control the game, create chances in front of goal, control the rival team with the counter-attacks and be ready to neutralize that. We are doing great and I hope we can continue like that."
The Spain international is one of City's more experienced players and he is ready to take on extra responsibility and inspire the club's promising youngsters.
"I am 30 years old now. So young players come to me, like me when I was young, I went to talk with the older guys, because they can help you with the experience they've got. I hope I can help the youngsters as well," Silva added.
"It made me feel very happy and very proud to be the captain against Manchester United and even more so in such a big game. I have been here for a while and I feel like I have been here all my life. It's the team I have played the most seasons with. So, being the captain in a derby, it makes me feel very proud.
"On the pitch, I have always had that responsibility to lead the team. But, of course, when you are captain, players, especially the young ones, they look at you more for the things you do on and off the pitch. But I have always been a very calm person."
The player has been performing impressively in the early stages of Guardiola's tenure and he says he is enjoying the switch in position and how the new manager gives him freedom on the pitch.