Bernardo Silva makes brutal Arsenal title claim and gives reason they may top Man City

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Manchester City star Bernardo Silva believes that they would've won the Premier League title if they weren't in a "transitional phase" as he laments they "frustrating" season.

Pep Guardiola's side trail Arsenal by two points with two games remaining and need a favour if they are to topple the Gunners late in the day. City have needed to make a late charge, which has come following the turn of the year and some shrewd transfer business.

After missing out on the title last term City invested in the summer to change the look of their team and then added Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi in January. They, and Rayan Cherki, have proved key in their late season push for the summit.

There's no doubt that Guardiola's side have no hit the level of previous years and dropped points in games you wouldn't expect. That has allowed Arsenal to remain out in front and Bernardo believes the situation at City has allowed them their opportunity.

He told the Athletic : "I also believe, and I know this is very subjective, that if we were not in a transitional season and if we didn't make so many mistakes, we would have won this league. I don't say we would have won easily, but we would have won this league - so it's quite frustrating."

Arsenal have finished second for the last three years, two of those to City. They're well poised to break a league title drought that dates back to 2004 with games against Burnley and Crystal Palace to come. The Manchester outfit face Bournemouth and Crystal Palace.

Bernardo has claimed six league titles in his time with City, which will soon come to an end. He's been part of a glorious period and maintains that Liverpool were the greatest rivals, but it was always inevitable that Arsenal would "man up" and pose a serious threat after years together.

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The Gunners' tactics have not endeared them to everyone with their set piece prowess proving a huge part of their part. They were on the positive end of a VAR call against West Ham last weekend, which ensured they remain in control of their own destiny.

Bernardo conceded they were right to call a foul on David Raya , but seemed to take a swipe at the tactics employed by the Gunners.

The Portuguese midfielder said: "You look at what has been happening with set pieces in the last two seasons and it's a bit of a shame to see teams taking one minute over throw-ins, free kicks, goal kicks, corners. I wouldn't say that's the way the game should be going."

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