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Manchester City host the Gunners at the Etihad Stadium next month but a key player is at risk of suspension for the potential Premier League title decider
Manchester City star Bernardo Silva is a suspension risk ahead of the top-flight showdown with Arsenal next month.
Everything you need to know about Bernardo Silva's suspension risk ahead of Man City's title showdown with Arsenal....
- The current tally: Manchester City skipper Bernardo Silva collected his eighth yellow card of the campaign during the recent 2-1 win over Newcastle United. Official Thomas Bramall cautioned him for an incident involving both a cynical foul and protesting towards the referee, though he was lucky to avoid a sending off.
- The suspension regulation: Premier League rules state that any player who receives 10 yellow cards throughout a season must complete a two-match suspension. Silva is now only two cautions away from activating this compulsory disciplinary spell on the sidelines.
- The reset cut-off: These yellow card totals only clear once a side has fulfilled 32 fixtures in their league season. City has presently contested 28 matches, meaning Silva must remain cautious through the next four outings.
- Forthcoming fixtures: To prevent a ban, Silva needs to come through upcoming encounters against Leeds, Nottingham Forest, West Ham, and Chelsea without hitting the 10-card threshold. These four contests represent the final period before the disciplinary slate is wiped clean.
- The Arsenal danger: If Silva picks up two more cautions before the reset, he will probably miss the vital title-deciding encounter against Arsenal on April 18. This 33rd fixture of the season is regarded as a "crunch" meeting that could settle the league championship.
- Competition specifics: Fortunately for Manchester City, Premier League yellow cards do not transfer into domestic cup competitions such as the FA Cup or Carabao Cup. This means Silva remains available for the forthcoming cup final and FA Cup matches irrespective of his league booking situation.
- Impact on the title race: Silva's exceptional performances have been crucial in maintaining Manchester City's position alongside Arsenal at the summit of the table. Manager Pep Guardiola has publicly stated his wish for the midfielder to agree fresh terms to remain at the club.
- Contract uncertainty: The 31-year-old's existing deal is due to expire at the conclusion of this season, leaving his future at the Etihad Stadium in doubt. Major clubs including Benfica, Juventus, and Chicago Fire are believed to be keen on securing him on a free transfer.
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