Bernardo Silva believes Manchester City's recent performance is a positive indicator for the upcoming season, expressing optimism after their dominant showing at the Club World Cup. The Portuguese midfielder, now the team's captain, highlighted the team's renewed form and ambition to improve after what he described as a disappointing previous year.

City's recent 5-2 victory over Juventus in the Club World Cup, held in Orlando, served as a statement performance. This win not only secured them the top spot in Group G but also showcased a return to the high standards expected of the Premier League champions. Silva emphasized that this performance demonstrates the team's improvement and their commitment to reaching the levels that fans have come to expect.

"We've always been potential winners in all competitions that we play," Silva stated, acknowledging the club's consistent ambition. He added, "Obviously it's just one game but we're happy that the performance was the way it was. It shows that we're improving, we're coming back to the levels and to the standards that we got people used to at this club. That's good."

Silva's focus extends beyond the immediate competition, as he sees this as a foundation for the entire year. "That's a good sign for next season. It's not only for this competition, but we want to build to the whole season, to the whole year, because what happened last year was quite disappointing for all of us," he explained. The drive to improve and avoid a repeat of last season's setbacks is a clear motivator for the team.

The victory over Juventus was particularly significant, considering City's previous struggles against the Italian side. They were defeated 2-0 by Juventus in the Champions League during a period of poor form last season. Silva noted the importance of demonstrating that those past results would not be repeated. "We had a very good performance against a tough team. They showed that in the past, they beat us last season," he said. "We wanted to prove that what happened last season will not happen this season, hopefully."

Silva's role as the new City captain adds another layer of significance to his words. He was chosen by Pep Guardiola, who decided against holding the usual squad vote this summer. Silva views this honor as one of the greatest in his career, especially as he embarks on his ninth season with the club. "It's probably one of the biggest honors of my career," Silva said. "I'm going to start my ninth season at the club. All that experience, I will try to pass it to the younger guys."

While acknowledging the individual honor, Silva also emphasized the importance of collective leadership. "But the leadership in a team, it's not about one guy. It's about each one of us being our own leader and helping the guy next to us in the dressing room," he stated. "I will need that help to help the team achieve a lot of things and hopefully win titles."

Silva's commitment to Manchester City has been a recurring theme, especially amidst transfer rumors. Despite interest from other clubs, including those in Saudi Arabia, Silva has consistently affirmed his intention to stay with City. "This season will for sure be with Manchester City. I'm going to stay," Silva confirmed, dispelling any doubts about his immediate future.

With his contract running until June 2026, there remains speculation about potential moves next summer, but for now, Silva's focus is firmly on leading Manchester City to a successful season.