Headline: Bernardo Silva Takes on Leadership Role for Portugal Following Ronaldo’s Retirement
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This international break marks a pivotal moment for Bernardo Silva as he steps into an influential position within the Portuguese national team. In the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo’s retirement, Silva has been appointed as the captain and is expected to guide the team in the years ahead.
Ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League match against Denmark, Silva shared insights into his journey at Real Madrid. He has recently transitioned to a deeper midfield role, a change he reflects upon with a mix of challenges and aspirations.
Silva has acknowledged his slow start at Real Madrid, particularly regarding his limited playing time in the initial phase of the season. He recognizes the fierce competition within the team but expressed a desire to contribute meaningfully. “It’s always difficult. We all want to play, we all want to be useful. In my career, I have always been used to being useful, to participating. When I don’t participate, it’s obviously tough,” he stated.
He elaborated on the team dynamics, saying, “The coach has 27 players, which are many, and only 11 can play at a time. It’s a pretty difficult job to choose between such a talented team.” This season, Silva has made only seven starts in La Liga, although he has begun to feature more prominently in manager José Mourinho’s plans recently.
“I will always give my best and I will always be willing to try to improve and help the team in whatever is necessary, whether it is 5, 10, 30, or 90 minutes. Of course, I want to participate and feel useful,” he emphasized.
Silva’s transition from a well-known playmaker to a deeper role reflects his evolving approach to the game. “Now I don’t know exactly why, but I’m more conservative, more thoughtful, very different than I was 10 years ago,” Silva explained. He now often plays as a deep-lying playmaker, fulfilling various roles in midfield.
“I am always available to try to help the National Team and my club in what the coach deems necessary. The coach will have to answer that question. I think he sees me as an 8, a 10, a link between defense and attack, and not as much as an extreme,” he added.
As Silva adapts to expectations in his new role, he concluded by outlining what is required from him now. “Therefore, that balance between defense and attack, which makes transitions, which helps with the pressure. The player who does a little bit of everything is what the coach expects of me,” he stated.
