Former Portugal coach explains why Bernardo Silva will thrive at Real Madrid: ‘They have signed a phenomenal player’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s decision to sign Bernardo Silva has received a major vote of confidence from one of the people who knows him better than most. 

Despite the midfielder enduring a difficult 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, former Portugal manager Fernando Santos believes the 31-year-old remains one of the world’s finest footballers and expects him to flourish under Jose Mourinho.

Bernardo Silva’s move to Real Madrid has sparked plenty of debate following his arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

While some questioned whether the veteran midfielder is still capable of performing at the highest level, Santos has dismissed those doubts and insists Real Madrid have signed one of the best midfielders in world football.

Why Bernardo is the perfect Real Madrid signing

Having worked closely with Bernardo Silva for years at international level, Santos believes Real Madrid have secured far more than just a technically gifted footballer.

“As a footballer, everyone already knows him; he has immense quality and sees the game in a way that very few players in the world do.

“His standards as a player are so high that it’s hard to say he’s on the same level as a person, but in his case it’s true. He’s considerate, polite, friendly and always has a smile on his face.

“On a personal and human level, he’s one of the finest footballers I’ve ever met in my entire career. Real Madrid have signed a phenomenal player in every sense of the word,” Santos told AS.

Despite turning 31, Santos believes the Bernardo Silva Real Madrid transfer has come at exactly the right time.

“From what I’ve seen of him this season at City, I’d say so. I know him inside out, and I’m convinced he still has some very good years ahead of him.

“He’s still at the peak of his career and he’s going to prove it. For me, he remains one of the best in the world. 

Bernardo Silva had an underwhelming World Cup campaign. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

“I think Real Madrid have made the right move in signing him and he’s going to contribute a great deal to their team.”

Mourinho’s tactical plan could unlock Bernardo Silva

One of the biggest talking points following the Real Madrid transfer has been how Bernardo Silva will fit into a squad that already features Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham.

Santos believes that will never be an issue.

“Great players know how to adapt to every situation and circumstance in a match.

“He’s very good at that and won’t have any trouble playing wherever he’s asked to. I’m sure Mourinho has a specific role in mind for him, and Bernardo will fulfil it perfectly,” he explained.

Competition for places is expected to be fierce at the Bernabeu, but Santos believes Mourinho signed the Portuguese international because he sees him playing a major role.

“He’s used to competing, and his quality will see him earn his place. I think he’s destined to play a very important role; that’s why Mourinho has signed him.

“Perhaps he might play closer to the right flank and drift into the centre from time to time, but wherever he’s deployed, he’ll do brilliantly thanks to his tactical intelligence and his reading of the game.

“Mourinho is shrewd, highly skilled in strategic concepts, and he’ll bring out the best in him.”

Bernardo has everything needed to succeed at Real Madrid

Santos also rejected suggestions that the pressure of playing for Real Madrid could affect the midfielder, especially after two disappointing seasons for the club.

Fernando Santos has backed Bernardo Silva. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images)

When asked whether Bernardo Silva shares similarities with Luka Modric, he preferred not to make direct comparisons.

“I don’t really like comparing footballers because each one has their own characteristics, but it’s clear that they share similarities in their style of play. 

“I’d say the two main ones, which they both have in common, are their immense technical ability and their commitment to the team.”

He also expressed complete confidence that the Portuguese star will embrace the challenge of playing at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“That won’t be a problem for him at all. He has plenty of experience, he’s played for some of the biggest clubs and he’ll know how to cope with the exacting demands Real Madrid will place on him. 

“Bernardo will rise to the challenge.”

Santos finished with another glowing endorsement of his national compatriot.

“I am. I think the Madrid fans – who are very knowledgeable and have seen the world’s best footballers pass through their stadium – will love Bernardo Silva. 

“I don’t think he’ll let anyone down and that he’ll more than live up to the expectations placed on him. 

“I’m sure he’s highly motivated because he loves a challenge, and this one is a massive one. He’s a magnificent player, of the highest calibre. And he’ll prove it in white,” he concluded.