Bernardo Silva: I Couldn't Say No to Real Madrid

Bernardo Silva experienced his first day as a Real Madrid player on Monday. The Portuguese midfielder, who arrived on a free transfer from Manchester City, underwent medical examinations in the morning and completed two training sessions at the club's facilities, his first under the guidance of José Mourinho. Afterward, he gave an interview to the club's television channel, expressing his excitement.

“It’s very special, and I’m extremely happy to be here. There’s no need to talk about this club because its entire history speaks for itself,” stated the Portuguese, who pledged his service to the team: “I’m happy to start and try to help this team continue winning, which they do so well. I’m just another player who will assist and strive to follow the winning path of this magnificent club.”

Regarding his debut in training, he acknowledged the hard work but emphasized the atmosphere within the squad. “I’m tired. The first training session was tough, but I’m very happy to meet my teammates. I already know some of them quite well, having played against them many times,” he explained. “People train with very high intensity, and this place feels like home.”

The Portuguese also touched upon Mourinho, with whom he had previously been rivals. “We’ve been opponents several times, and now we’re on the same side. He’s a coach who means a lot to Portuguese football; from a young age, we watched his teams, and he has always elevated Portugal’s name to the highest level. I’m very happy that I’ll be able to start and learn from him.”

When asked about his potential contributions, he described himself as a versatile and team-oriented player. “I’m a hardworking footballer who tries to make those around me better. I always strive to be available in different positions to help the team. I can fit in many roles and will be ready for whatever Real Madrid needs.”

The midfielder explained that the call from the club left no room for doubt, and he accepted without hesitation. “When Real Madrid came calling, it was impossible not to say ‘yes’; I didn’t think twice,” he admitted. “Having played against Madrid many times, you feel how great it is to be here, how imposing the ‘Bernabéu’ is. Being close to my family, very close to Portugal, in a very similar culture, helps. But the dream of playing for the best club in the history of football is a privilege.”

Finally, he revealed his footballing idols, with one name linked to the “White Ballet.” “I have many, and Zidane is undoubtedly one of them. Also Rui Costa, because he’s a Benfica and Portugal player, and Modrić, who has been a great example for me and a role model on and off the pitch,” he listed. “Zidane is perhaps in the top 5 in football history. He played more or less in my position, and when I was young, I watched how he controlled the ball and how he played.”