Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted he will not stand in the way of one of his stars should the player wish to leave the reigning Premier League champions in the coming days.
Click through the gallery above to see some of the action from City's 3-3 draw with Barca in a friendly on Wednesday night!
In recent weeks, it has been public knowledge that Barcelona have been keen on acquiring the services of Bernardo Silva from the Citizens in the ongoing transfer window.
The Portugal international is reportedly Xavi's main priority in midfield, but with City's hefty price tag said to be £80 million (R1.6 billion), coupled with Barca's own financial issues, the Catalans have not yet been in a serious position to negotiate.
With just a week remaining until the transfer window slams shut, the English side's CEO Ferran Soriano insisted on Wednesday afternoon that Silva's exit is highly unlikely.
Nevertheless, Guardiola seems to have given the potential transfer new life. Following the friendly City and Barca played out at the Camp Nou on Wednesday night, the Spanish tactician admitted Silva stills wants the move to the Blaugrana and that he would not interfere should the player make a concerted effort to leave the Etihad Stadium.
"We want Bernardo Silva with us but I don't want anyone to be unhappy here," Guardiola said to the press following the 3-3 draw, as per SB Nation.
"The first thing would be for the two clubs to come to an agreement – then of course, I want him in my team.
"It's true that Bernardo Silva really likes FC Barcelona."
Head coach of the Blaugrana, Xavi, did not shy away from letting the public know about his feelings towards the 28-year-old playmaker either.
"I love Bernardo as a player," he said after the friendly.
"He understands everything and has an amazing ability to make decisions.
"He's a very important player for Pep and he makes the difference on the pitch."
Have you seen the new third kit Barcelona recently revealed? Have a look:
Open a tab account, it's easy and start betting on local and international soccer now!
