Ahead of this weekend’s trip to Aston Villa, for our latest dip into the archives, we rewind the clock back to December 2021 and revisit an iconic Bernardo Silva strike that served to encompass the very best of Pep Guardiola’s beguiling Manchester City.
It was a goal that helped clinch a vital 2-1 midweek Villa Park victory for City against impressive hosts, serving as the perfect way to confirm what was the 150th Premier League win for Guardiola.
But much more than that, it was a textbook demonstration of the world-class talent, technique, and commitment to attacking football that have become the hallmark of Pep’s City over the past decade.
With the clock on 43 minutes and Villa 1-0 down but attacking and seeking to get back on level terms, City seized on a loose ball deep in our box before Joao Cancelo and Riyad Mahrez quickly wrestled control. Skipper Fernandinho then upped the attacking ante, instantly despatching an inch-perfect 30-yard pass to set Gabriel Jesus free on the right flank as City turned defence to attack in a heartbeat.
The Brazilian took one touch before looking up and despatching a superb arcing cross that found the advancing Bernardo who had powered into the periphery of the Villa box.
Bernardo had the time to bring the ball down but instead demonstrated his world-class technique by instantly volleying Jesus’ dropping cross into the roof of the net from just inside the area to stun the Holte End. From start to finish it was all over in barely 13 seconds and served as an emphatic template for City’s brand of bewitching, beautiful football.
Indeed, you could say it was a goal fit for a king, which felt only appropriate given the Duke of Cambridge – a huge Villa fan – was amongst those present and left spellbound by Bernardo’s bolt from the Blue.
Not surprisingly, the effort went on to win City’s Goal of the Season award for 2021/22 and still stands as one of the most eye-catching and memorable strikes of Guardiola’s remarkable City reign.
Reflecting on the goal that night, the boss made plain his boundless admiration for the exemplary execution from City’s diminutive Portuguese playmaker.
“He’s the best at the moment,” Pep declared.
“It was an exceptional pass from Fernandinho to the channel to Gabriel, then Gabriel chose the right moment for the cross and after, Bernardo had no problems with the ball. He had the special ability to do whatever he wanted and against a good keeper. It was an incredible finish.”
This moment remains etched in Premier League history as one of the finest examples of teamwork, precision, and flair. It wasn’t just a goal — it was a statement of intent from a side that continues to redefine modern football, reminding fans that Manchester City’s artistry is as much about intelligence and timing as it is about raw skill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When did Bernardo Silva score his iconic goal against Aston Villa?
A: Bernardo Silva scored the goal on December 1, 2021, during a Premier League fixture at Villa Park.
Q2: What was significant about the match for Pep Guardiola?
A: The 2-1 victory marked Pep Guardiola’s 150th Premier League win as Manchester City manager.
Q3: Why is the goal considered one of the best under Guardiola?
A: The goal perfectly showcased City’s fluid transition play, technical excellence, and tactical precision — hallmarks of Guardiola’s footballing philosophy.
Q4: Did Bernardo Silva win any award for that goal?
A: Yes, the goal won Manchester City’s “Goal of the Season” award for the 2021/22 campaign.
Q5: Who assisted Bernardo Silva for the goal?
A: Gabriel Jesus provided the assist with a brilliant cross following Fernandinho’s precise long pass.
Conclusion
Bernardo Silva’s stunning volley against Aston Villa was more than just a goal it was a piece of footballing art that encapsulated the beauty, intelligence, and teamwork of Manchester City under Pep Guardiola. Moments like this remind fans why City’s era of dominance has been built on creativity and collective brilliance. As the years pass, this “bolt from the Blue” continues to shine brightly in Premier League folklore, symbolizing a generation of football defined by precision, elegance, and passion.
