Bernardo Silva has described being named Manchester City captain as one of the "biggest honours" of his career, as he prepares to lead the team into the new season. The 30-year-old Portuguese midfielder was recently appointed as the club's new skipper.
Silva is embarking on his ninth season with Manchester City, and he reflected on his journey with the club, acknowledging the "fantastic moments and some disappointments" they've shared. He intends to draw upon this wealth of experience to guide the younger players in the squad. However, he also emphasized the importance of collective leadership, stating, "It's about each one of us being our own leader and helping the guy next to us in the dressing room."
The appointment marks a departure from Manchester City's usual tradition. Manager Pep Guardiola has usually allowed the players and staff to vote on who should be captain. However, after a trophyless season, Guardiola decided to take the reins and personally select Silva for the role. Alongside Silva, Guardiola named Rúben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland as vice-captains. Guardiola has expressed his hope that Haaland, in particular, will learn from the senior figures around him and develop into a future captain.
Silva's future at the club remains somewhat uncertain. He has one year left on his contract, which is due to expire in 2026, and has hinted that he may not extend it. He has been linked with a move back to his boyhood club, Benfica. Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Silva has affirmed his commitment to Manchester City for the upcoming season. "This season for sure will be at City, I'm going to stay," he stated.
Silva's appointment comes after Kevin De Bruyne's departure, who had taken over the captaincy from Kyle Walker. Walker, who is expected to leave permanently this summer, spent the second half of last season on loan with AC Milan.
Manchester City recently thrashed Juventus 5-2 in their final group game of the FIFA Club World Cup. Silva said he was happy with the team's performance, indicating they have a real chance of battling for the title of world champions in New Jersey on July 13. "We've always been potential winners in all competitions that we play."
