Bernardo Silva Breaks Silence on Man City Future as Pep Guardiola Unveils New Captain Choice
Bernardo Silva has announced his commitment to staying at Manchester City for the 2025–26 campaign after being appointed as the club's new captain.
The Citizens required a new skipper during the summer transfer window following Kevin De Bruyne's exit, who had inherited the captain's armband from Kyle Walker. The defender, anticipated to make a permanent departure this summer, had requested a move in January and completed the latter portion of the season on loan at AC Milan.
Previously, the City players were allowed to select their own captain democratically, but Guardiola has now assumed control of this decision and awarded the captaincy to Silva, who has dismissed any possibility of leaving this summer despite entering his contract's final year.
"I understand what my long-term plans are, but now isn't the appropriate moment to discuss them," Silva stated. "My complete attention is on this season. My entire focus is on delivering excellent performances for Manchester City.
"I'll address it when the proper time arrives. With one year remaining on my deal, it's clear I could depart next season. However, this campaign I will definitely be staying at City. I've received opportunities previously and this year, similar to last year, my choice is to remain with Manchester City."
When explaining his rationale for personally selecting the captain, an exasperated Guardiola emphasized his desire to implement substantial changes following last season's letdown.
"As this season's manager, for the first time in my coaching career, I made the decision to personally choose my captain," Guardiola explained. "I was dissatisfied with last season's events, and I've determined that this season I will be the one representing the team."
He added: "I simply made this decision for this season, sometimes I need to assert my authority. This campaign I chose to take control, so I selected the four captains, and following this World Cup, we might add one or two additional ones."
Erling Haaland is included in the new leadership group, with Guardiola expecting him to benefit from the experienced voices surrounding him this season.
"Primarily, he's still very young, but he must begin understanding the responsibilities of captaincy," Guardiola commented about his striker. "He will remain here, we hope, for numerous years ahead, which is why eventually he will assume that role as the primary leader.
"With Bernardo present, along with Rúben [Dias], Rodri, and Ilkay Gündogan, who served as an exceptional captain during our treble-winning season, [Haaland] will develop his leadership skills.
"Particularly because he commands tremendous respect. He's a significant presence. It's unnecessary to mention his on-field contributions, but what's crucial for me is my belief that, considering this club's future, he needs to begin learning the meaning of captaincy and prioritizing what benefits the team most."