Bernardo Silva blasts fixture planners for disrespect in Manchester City schedule dispute

Bernardo Silva, Manchester Citys skipper, has criticised the football calendar organisers for failing to show respect and equity, after his team received minimal recovery time before facing Arsenal.

City started their 1-1 stalemate at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, merely 66 hours after the concluding whistle in their Champions League home victory against Napoli.

Pep Guardiolas squad had almost no opportunity to recuperate from the Napoli match prior to the vital Premier League encounter in north London, whereas Arsenal had competed in their Champions League debut against Athletic Bilbao 48 hours prior, on Tuesday.

Silva believed the teams fatigue proved crucial, with Arsenal taking control following Erling Haalands initial goal, prior to securing a late equaliser via Gabriel Martinelli.

Guardiola opted for an unaltered lineup versus Arsenal instead of making substitutions, yet Silva maintains the congested calendar bears responsibility for Citys final disappointment.

"In truth, we cannot enter one of the seasons key matches with such a setback regarding recovery. It is unfair to contest a game of this magnitude under these conditions. It simply is not correct," he remarked.

"Arsenal enjoyed five days rest, while we had just two and a half. For a pivotal fixture, this situation is unacceptable. It falls short.

"I was not in ideal shape for such a match, and those unfamiliar with elite level play cannot grasp the sensation. Optimal fitness is essential.

"We witnessed (Abdukodir) Khusanov sustaining an injury due to the intensity of these encounters. It frustrates me that we could not perform at our peak, solely because of a decision by those who deem it equitable to travel after two and a half fewer days than Arsenal."

Mirroring the grievances voiced by numerous fellow professionals amid escalating player workloads, Silva argues that such brief intervals impose excessive strain.

"The calendar exists as it does, and I comprehend the presence of various tournaments, with UEFA, the Premier League, and broadcasters seeking revenue," he commented.

"All we seek is reasonable judgement, given this ranks among the seasons major clashes. Players require equivalent physical states, or else fairness eludes us."

Silva indicated that efforts to appeal to the sports governing bodies would prove futile.

"They ignore our voices. We desire alterations. Yet nothing shifts," he added.

"It holds little sway, but for supporters, club dignity, and competitive integrity, the recent events do not sit well."