Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shed light on his decision to make experienced midfielder Bernardo Silva the captain of his team, pointing to the Portugal international’s reliability and commitment to the club.
City lost two captains this summer with Kyle Walker leaving for Burnley while alternative skipper Kevin De Bruyne also secured a departure of his own to join reigning Serie A champions Napoli following the expiration of his contract.
In the past, Guardiola let his players choose their own captain, but this time he took charge and appointed Silva himself, while also naming Ruben Dias, Rodri and Erling Haaland as part of the new leadership group.
Asked why he changed his approach during an appearance on Sky Sports’ One on One podcast, Guardiola explained his decision.
“I chose him for one reason,” Guardiola began. “In the last season, when we were in big, big trouble, always he was there.
“Always he was there, training everyday, exhausted. We had just 13, 14 players plus the academy in one moment and every three days we’d lose a game—and always he was there. He’s the player in my period here who has played the most minutes, so he has always been available. For his generosity when he doesn’t play, always a big smile, always trying to help.
“He played at left back, right back, winger, holding midfielder. It doesn’t matter which position, always thinking what is best for the team. With all his attributes, I said he will be a good captain. And he’s been a really, really good captain.”
Just as Guardiola said, Silva has been one of the most loyal servants of the club since he joined from Monaco. The Portuguese has made the highest number of appearances under Guardiola, bringing up his total tally to 408 games in last weekend’s season opener.
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