Having played a pivotal part in a near-flawless start to the season, David Silva was been notable by his absence for Man City’s recent outings against Newcastle and Crystal Palace.
While details were scant, Silva was known to be on personal leave after requesting that his family’s privacy be respected before returning to the fold for Tuesday’s win over Watford.
Today, the Spanish string-puller has offered further insight, confirming that the issue relates to the premature birth of his son, Mateo, who is fighting for his life in hospital.
COMUNICADO OFICIAL: pic.twitter.com/8Ooaef92ro
— David Silva (@21LVA) January 3, 2018
Silva’s heart-wrenching statement reads:
I want to thank you all for the love and good wishes received in the last few weeks, special thanks to my teammates, the manager and all at the club for understanding my situation.
Also I want to share with you the birth of my son Mateo, who was born extremely preterm and is fighting day by day with the help of the medical team.
Pies would like to congratulate Silva and his wife on the birth of their nipper and wish them all the very best in what must undoubtedly be a troubling time for the family.
Fingers crossed for little Mateo and the rest of the Silva clan.