A Special Connection: Why Silva Ran Toward Nmecha | OneFootball

Fabio, why did you decide to run straight to the bench and to Felix?Fabio Silva: “Because sometimes things aren’t easy in football or in life. Last season and even at the start of this one, there was a lot of noise surrounding me. He always came to me and tried to push me to get better and focus on what I can control. And he always told me that I can make a difference. He’s one of my best friends on the team and has helped me a lot. Not just after this game — even in past games, when things were going well, I always went up to him and said, ‘Thanks for helping me so much.’ He’s one of the people who’s really helped me get to this moment. And if I’m in a situation like this now, it’s partly because of him.”

Felix, you saw him fly down the field and leave everyone in hist dust, with only the goalkeeper to get past. You must have been on the edge of your deat, no?Felix Nmecha: “He told me that before the game. He said, ‘If I score, I’ll come over to you.’ He’s an honest guy, and he kept his word. When it comes to Fabio, I’m not the kind of person who judges him solely by his goals. Even last season, he had a lot of good moments in my opinion. Of course, people will always talk, but I think he did what he could. When the confidence comes, you get your chances, and things start to click, it’s a joy to watch. Because we see just how much quality and talent he has. When he scores now, shows off beautiful plays, and plays so well, I’m really happy for the team. That’s just great for the team, and I’m looking forward to seeing even more of that.”

Seeing Felix score goals like this, do you feel he's best utilized in the midfield? Should he play in a more advanced position?Fabio Silva: “Only he can score a goal like that because he’s so athletic, has those muscles, and can stretch that far. If I try that, I’ll hurt myself. He started out on the bench, and of course everyone wants to start from the beginning. But I told him, ‘You’re going to be important.’ Last weekend, I came off the bench, did my job, and was important to the team. That’s why I told him the same thing. I try to push everyone so they can be important to us. Because, as I always say, I think we have a great group and a great roster this season. I believe we can compete for big goals this season. That’s the most important thing.”