Man City has appointed Bernardo Silva (31) as the new captain ahead of their first match in the Club World Cup.
Ahead of the Group G opening match against Wydad AC (Morocco) in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Man City has entrusted Silva with the captain's armband on the 19th (Korea time).
The British 'Daily Mail' reported on the 18th, "This decision is based on direct appointment by coach Pep Guardiola rather than the existing player voting system."
Man City has determined its captaincy through player votes every season. However, this time, Coach Guardiola personally earmarked Silva for the captaincy.
Silva has been a key player since joining Man City from AS Monaco in 2017, contributing significantly for eight years.
Silva's appointment as captain carries special significance as his contract is set to expire next summer. This decision is receiving more attention as Saudi Arabian clubs and his former team Benfica target Silva for a transfer.
Coach Guardiola explained the background of the captaincy appointment, stating, "Bernardo is always a reliable player. He has been consistent without major injuries and is the first to step up in a crisis."
Silva will take over the captaincy from Ilkay Gundogan, Kyle Walker, and Kevin De Bruyne. Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland have been appointed as vice-captains.
Ahead of his first season as captain, Silva expressed, "I had many conversations with the players last season and learned important lessons. This season, I will show a better version of myself based on that experience."
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