Roy Keane identified the one ‘genius’ player from the Premier League he was ‘thankful’ to have avoided facing during his career.
Keane had a storied tenure at Manchester United, where he won seven Premier League titles.
Throughout his career, he encountered top players like Patrick Vieira, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Zinedine Zidane. However, he never faced David Silva, who had an exceptional run with Manchester City.
Keane holds Silva in very high esteem, considering him one of the greatest players in Premier League history, and expressed relief that he never had to compete against the Spanish star.
“I often reflect on the players from the last couple of decades who have graced the Premier League,” he remarked.
“The elite talents—Shearers, Henrys, Gerrards, Giggs—he ranks among them. Absolutely remarkable.” Regarding Silva, Keane continued: “It’s unfortunate to think of him leaving in an empty stadium. The City supporters would have loved to give him a proper farewell, and I’m sure he’ll return for one.
“Little genius. When I think about players from the past decade, I often consider who I would have liked to face after my retirement.
“But he’s one player I’m relieved I didn’t have to go up against because I know he would have outmaneuvered me. An absolute little genius.”
Silva enjoyed ten successful years at Man City, winning four Premier League titles and playing over 300 league matches before returning to Spain, leaving behind a remarkable legacy at the Etihad.
