Man City: Pep Guardiola names new captain as Kyle Walker is replaced | OneFootball

Guardiola has taken control of the Man City captaincy situation

Walker was only awarded the armband last season following a vote amongst the Man City players, but only wore it on a handful occasions after asking to leave the club in the January transfer window.

Having not been named in the Man City squad for the Club World Cup it’s clear Walker does not figure in Pep Guardiola’s plans for the new season and he has been linked with moves to Everton and Fenerbahce.

Speaking ahead of the Club World Cup clash against Wydad AC, the Spaniard revealed Bernardo Silva will be one of his four-strong captaincy group for the 2025-26 campaign.

He said: "I'm the manager and this season, for the first time in my career, I decided who is to be my captain.

"I didn't like what happened last season and I decided this season who represents the team. Sometimes I want to be the boss!

"I think Bernardo had been an incredible figure for us. Eight years here, no injures, always in the bad moments he makes a step up, sets the example on the pitch.

"Ruben it is not necessary to say. He has been (the same as Silva), and Rodri at the same time."

Former captain: Kyle Walker

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Silva, Ruben Dias and Rodri all featured in the leadership group last season, along with Walker and Kevin De Bruyne, but the elevation of Erling Haaland is new.

The prolific striker signed a 10-year contract in January and, after plundering 121 goals in 142 City appearances, is ready for the step up.

"He has to start to learn what does it mean to be a captain because he will be here, hopefully for many, many years,” Guardiola added.

"Sooner or later he will take that position as the first one. I took (the decision) because he's incredibly respected. He's an important figure for us."