Bernardo Silva has described being named Manchester City captain as "one of the biggest honours of my career." The Portuguese midfielder, entering his ninth season with the club, was handed the armband by manager Pep Guardiola, who broke with tradition by personally selecting the leadership group for the 2025/26 season.
Silva's appointment comes after a period of change at City, with Kevin De Bruyne departing for Napoli after his contract was not renewed. Guardiola explained his decision to deviate from the usual process of allowing players and staff to vote for the captain, stating that he "didn't like what happened last season" and wanted to take more direct control. In addition to Silva, Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland were named as vice-captains.
The 30-year-old Silva, who joined City from AS Monaco in 2017, has become a key figure at the club, contributing to multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. Known for his work rate, technical ability, and versatility, Silva has also endeared himself to fans with his commitment to the team.
Silva expressed his pride in being named captain and emphasized the importance of collective leadership within the squad. "It's probably one of the biggest honours of my career," he said. "I'm going to start my ninth season at the club, and we went through a lot of fantastic moments and some disappointments as well. All that experience, I will try to pass it to the younger guys, but the leadership in the team, it's not about one guy." He further added, "It’s about each one of ourselves being our own leader and helping the guy next to us in the dressing room." He also stated that he is counting on the help of Ruben, Rodri, Erling and all of the other players to help him, and that he will need that help to help the team achieve a lot of things and hopefully win titles.
Guardiola has also spoken highly of Silva's qualities, praising his consistency, resilience, and leadership on and off the pitch. "Bernardo has been an incredible figure for us," Guardiola said. "Eight years here, no injuries. Always in the bad moments he makes a step up, sets the example on the pitch." Guardiola also highlighted Silva's willingness to speak his mind for the benefit of the club.
Silva's future at City has been a subject of speculation in recent years, with links to clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. However, he has consistently reiterated his commitment to the club. Despite entering the final year of his contract, Silva has confirmed that he will be staying at City for the upcoming season. "This season for sure will be at City, I'm going to stay," Silva said. "I've had options in the past and this year, like last year, my option is to stay at Man City."
Silva's leadership will be tested immediately as City compete in the Club World Cup in the United States. City defeated Juventus 5-2 in their final group stage game, with Silva purring over the team's future. City will face Al Hilal in the round of 16.
Looking ahead, Guardiola has identified Erling Haaland as a potential future captain of the club. "First of all, he's so young, but he has to start to learn what it means to be a captain because he will be here, hopefully, for many, many years," Guardiola said. "Sooner or later he will take that position as the first one."
