Pep Guardiola jokes about Bernardo Silva rumours ahead of Barcelona vs Manchester City

Barcelona return to action against Real Sociedad on Sunday night, coming off a slow start after a goalless stalemate against Rayo Vallecano to open their accounts. Shortly after that, though, they will host Manchester City at the Camp Nou for a charity match.

The game, set to be played in honour of former Barcelona goalkeeper Juan Carlos Unzue, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2020. All proceeds from the clash will be donated to ALS charities.

“With your commitment, you have shown the world that football is not just a business and a weekly show, but a promise and friendship. I hope we can fill the Camp Nou with fans on matchday,” Unzue said about the friendly.

Barcelona and City are, as one would expect, on fantastic terms. Pep Guardiola has a friendly relationship with Joan Laporta, and is always happy to return to his home, Camp Nou.

The two engaged in banter during the announcement ceremony for the game, with Laporta publicly asking Pep whether Bernardo Silva would accompany them. The Portuguese has been on the Catalan radar the entire summer, even though a move seems difficult now.

When asked about Bernardo today on Catalunya Radio, Pep did not miss his chance to fire some friendly shots at Barcelona fans.

“You’ll [Barcelona] will see him play on Wednesday, won’t you? But what is certain is that he will play for us, Manchester City,” he said.

Of course, this came after a series of wholesome quotes, especially those addressed to and in favour of Barcelona, Carlos Unzue, and the Camp Nou.

“I’m very excited to be back at the Camp Nou,” Pep exclaimed, before continuing, “Life has dealt Carlos [Unzue] with a punch, but he gets up every time. He helps a lot of people with his gestures and actions.”