🚨 Pep Guardiola Eyes Brighton Star Ayari as Potential Bernardo Silva Successor — “One of the Best Players in Europe,” Says Man City Boss

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has once again sent shockwaves through the football world after publicly praising Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yasin Ayari, calling him “one of the best young players in Europe.”

The City boss, known for his sharp eye in spotting elite talent, is reportedly interested in signing Ayari as a long-term replacement for Bernardo Silva, whose future at the Etihad remains uncertain amid links with several European giants.

Speaking after City’s recent Premier League clash, Guardiola couldn’t hide his admiration for the 21-year-old Swedish international:

“Brighton have one of the best players in Europe right now. Ayari is special — intelligent, technically gifted, and brave on the ball. He plays football the way I love to see it played.”

Ayari, currently shining under Roberto De Zerbi, has caught the attention of top clubs thanks to his composure, passing range, and tactical versatility. His ability to operate both as a deep-lying playmaker and an attacking midfielder fits perfectly with Guardiola’s style of fluid, possession-based football.

Sources close to Manchester City have hinted that Guardiola sees Ayari as the ideal candidate to gradually take over the creative responsibilities that Bernardo Silva has shouldered for years.

However, any move for the Brighton midfielder will not be simple. The Seagulls have developed a reputation for being tough negotiators, especially when it comes to selling their top talent.

“Brighton know the quality they have in Ayari,” one insider told reporters. “They won’t let him go cheaply — especially not to a club like City.”

If City were to make an official approach, it would surely dominate the headlines. A transfer between the two Premier League clubs — one renowned for developing stars and the other for perfecting them — would only add another fascinating twist to the league’s ongoing power dynamics.

💬 Guardiola’s open admiration has already sparked debate among fans and pundits — is Yasin Ayari destined to follow in Bernardo Silva’s footsteps at Manchester City?

One thing is certain: if Pep gets his way, another Brighton gem could soon be heading to the Etihad Stadium.