Almost five years ago now, Manchester City signed David Silva from Spanish side Valencia and in doing so, introduced the English Premier League to one of the most gifted left-footed players in modern day football.
The Spaniard is often considered to be one of the best playmakers across England and has time and time again proven that, through his performances. A genius on the ball, with the eye and the skill to pick out even the toughest of passes, matched with the ability to score as well, Silva has truly come to be one of, if not the best playmaker in the Premier League.
No matter what team you support, you cannot help but admire the Spaniard’s quality. An absolute delight to watch for the neutrals, the same cannot be said for opposing defenders. Silva possesses the ability to link up with almost any striker that he plays along side. The partnership he has formed with Sergio Aguero at Manchester City is a perfect example of that. The duo have been at the centre of some brilliant build-up plays this season and seem like they can almost anticipate each other’s next move.
City’s only goal in their win over Tottenham at White Hart Lane last season was a reminder of exactly that. Their interplay almost seems telekinetic at times. This is not the first time the Silva has formed a deadly partnership with one of his strikers. During their time at Valencia, Silva formed a formidable duet with Spanish teammate David Villa, at both domestic and international levels.
The 29-year-old always seems to be calm and composed when on the ball and his vision to pick out the perfect pass is second to no one in the league. His abilities at set-pieces are also one of the attributes that make him a top playmaker. The 2014-15 season saw Silva wrap up 12 goals and 11 assists in the league, and, since his arrival in England, has made 162 league appearances, in which he scored a total of 33 goals and assisted another 58. While still very impressive, these stats do not even begin to describe his importance in the City midfield.
Other playmakers in the Premier League, like Cesc Fabregas, Juan Mata, Angel Di Maria, Santi Carzola and Eden Hazard have also enjoyed fantastic seasons with their respective clubs. So what makes Silva as good, if not better, than them? While Hazard and Di Maria possess the skill and flair, players like Fabregas, Mata and Carzola can pull out those key passes from in and around midfield.
What separates Silva from the lot is that he possesses both these attributes. The Spaniard can dribble past defences for fun and can put it on a plate for his striker. ‘A complete midfield player’ is a more accurate definition of him. He can play and excel in a number of positions in midfield, whether it is on the wings, deep in midfield or right behind the striker.
Silva has also been a huge part of Spain’s success at international level. A regular starter since 2007, he has already made 91 appearances for his national side, scoring 23 goals in the process. He was an integral part of the squad that won the Euros in 2008 and 2012, the 2013 Confederations Cup and also the World Cup in 2010. On course to winning his 100th cap for Spain, Silva still has a lot to offer at international level.
Even with Silva’s stellar performances last season, Manchester City still ended the season trophyless. With a new-look City side to be expected next season, Silva can be well assured he will still have a vital role to play for the Sky Blues. Now at the peak of his career, he can only improve further and will have a key part to play if City are to reclaim the title from Chelsea.
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Amongst the best?, he is the best playmaker full stop.