It was a performance to enjoy, according to the boss, who had plenty to admire about his team’s efforts at Anfield.
In an absorbing contest which lived up to the pre-match hype, there was no shortage of man of the match contenders, with Gabriel Jesus, Rodrigo and Phil Foden all impressing against Jurgen Klopp’s men.
Rodrigo and Foden made the most telling contributions from those in sky blue, with the Spaniard making a match-saving block to deny Fabinho late on, whilst Foden netted City’s first and had a hand in the second on an afternoon in which he gave James Milner a torrid time.
But, Bernardo was equally influential.
Indeed, the stats would suggest the Portuguese playmaker was City’s leading man in a game which boasted a stellar line-up.
The 27-year-old once again evidenced his ability to mix artistry with industry as he led Guardiola’s side in a number of key departments.
Of our midfield and forward players to complete 90 minutes, he boasted the highest passing accuracy with 85.5%, whilst he (55) and Rodrigo (60) both made more passes than any of Liverpool’s front six.
Bernardo also posted the highest number of successful dribbles (4) out of the defending Premier League champions attacking options, with his mesmerising run to create a first half opportunity for Foden one of the highlights of the game.
But, as is often the case with City’s No.20, his contribution wasn’t only felt in an attacking sense as he once again evidenced his tireless work rate.
He won the most tackles (3) out of all our midfielders and forwards and also posted the highest number of interceptions (2) in what was a fine all-round performance.
Bernardo has started the new season in a rich vein of form, with his display at Liverpool capping a fine week for him after he impressed against Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
A potent mix of silk and steel, his efforts at Anfield provided another reminder of how valuable he can be in the big games.
