David Silva

Biography and City Career:

David Silva was born on 8^th January 1986 in Arguineguin, Gran Canaria

He is one of the few players who justifies the title of Legend. Adored by Manchester City fans and admired by football fans around the world, Silva had a magnificent career with the club winning trophy after trophy. He was also a success on the international stage with Spain, winning the World Cup in 2010 plus the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

Silva arrived in Manchester from Valencia in July 2010 as a World Cup winner. David adapted quickly to the Premier League, his talents immediately winning over the City fans. His first goal for the club, away at Blackpool, showed the skills that became his trademark. When he had the ball it appeared that he had so much more space than other players, he rarely a misplaced pass. He could spot teammates runs and place an inch perfect pass he had assists for 92 Premier League goals. He was a perfect gentleman on and off the pitch. His final season at City saw him replace Vincent Kompany as Club captain.

By the end of his first season he had helped the team win the FA Cup, the club’s first major trophy for 35 years. This was the launchpad for the next decade. Silva and City won the Premier League in 2012 and more trophies soon followed. He was named Manchester City players’ Player of the Year in 2012 and Manchester City Player of the Year in 2017. Silva was also named in the Premier League Team of the Year twice.

David Silva was a permanent fixture in the Manchester City team for 10 years playing more than 400 games for the Blues. El Mago (the magician) is one of the most decorated players in the club’s history having won 4 Premier League titles, 2 FA Cups, 5 EFL Cups, and 2 Community Shields with the club. He is in the Top 10 Provider of Assists in the Premier League of all time.  

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 deprived David, Manchester City fans and football in general the farewell El Mago merited as his final fixtures were played behind closed doors without fans present.

Notable facts/stories:

David earned 125 caps for Spain scoring 35 times making him their 4^th highest goal scorer of all time. He has a World Cup winners medal and 2 European Championship winners medals.

David was given the nickname Merlin by his teammates shortly after arrival at the club.

Non-City career:

Silva is from Gran Canaria. He began his career in Valencia’s academy with loan spells at Eiber and Celta Vigo before establishing himself in the Valencia first team. Whilst at Valencia, he won the Copa Del Ray.