Ahead of the first match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Manchester City (Man City) appointed Bernardo Silva (31) as the new captain.
The British 'Daily Mail' reported on the 18th (Korean time) that "the decision regarding the captain for Man City was unusual in that it was not made through the existing player voting method, but rather by the direct appointment of coach Pep Guardiola."
Man City has formed its captaincy through player voting every season. However, this time, Coach Guardiola directly entrusted the captain's armband to Silva, which has garnered attention. Moreover, with Silva's contract expiring with Man City next summer, this is seen as a significant decision.
Silva, originally from Portugal, has been a key player for Man City since joining from AS Monaco in 2017, and has served in this role for eight years. Silva is currently under interest from Saudi Arabian clubs and his former team, Benfica.
Ahead of the contract expiration in the summer of 2026, Silva noted, "I have already made my decision, but now is not the time to talk about it," while emphasizing, "I will definitely stay with Man City this season."
Coach Guardiola explained the reason for appointing Silva by stating, "Bernardo is always a reliable player," and added, "He has been consistent for eight years without major injuries and has been the first to step up when the team was in difficulty."
Silva is the captain of Man City, succeeding İlkay Gündoğan, Kyle Walker, and Kevin De Bruyne. Ruben Dias, Rodri, and Erling Haaland have been appointed as vice-captains.
Silva stated, "I had many conversations with the players about last season and learned important lessons," and added, "This season, I will not forget those lessons and will show a better version of myself."
Silva's captaincy debut is expected to take place in the United States. Man City will face Morocco's Wydad AC in the first match of Group G of the Club World Cup on the 19th.
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