Bernardo Silva gives his verdict on Chelsea’s performance in the FA Cup final
Chelsea were on the wrong end of a 1-0 result in the FA Cup final at Wembley, but Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva was impressed with the Blues.
Calum McFarlane stuck to the back five which had worked so well for Chelsea against Liverpool, however they were undone by a piece of magic from Antoine Semenyo with less than 20 minutes to go.
The Blues clearly ran out of steam in the latter stages. Enzo Fernandez was desperate for Joao Pedro to be subbed off as he was flagging late on in the game.
Ultimately, Chelsea were unable to capitalise for the periods of the game where they were on top, which was the case for the first sections of the second half.
Bernardo Silva made this point after the game when talking to BBC Sport, stating that his side were under a lot of pressure from a ‘really strong’ Chelsea side.
He said: “I think the beginning of the second half was really tough for us. They started really strong, putting us under constant pressure. It wasn’t easy at all today. So, congratulations to Chelsea, they were very, very difficult. We’re really happy.”
A number of Blues stars ranked highly in our player ratings despite the defeat. Levi Colwill impressed and looks set to play a big role next season.
Encouraging signs for Chelsea’s new permanent manager
The performance of Chelsea and the fact they nullified City for large portions of the final will certainly have done their quest to hire a new manager no harm at all.
It has been reported since the game finished that there is an agreement in principle to hire Xabi Alonso on a two-year deal.
The former Real Madrid boss is largely seen as one of the best options available for any side looking for a new boss. Liverpool fans were desperate for him to come to Anfield.
However, Arne Slot staying and Alonso’s desire to live in London looks to have given Chelsea the edge ahead of next season.
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