Pep: Naming Bernardo captain was my best decision of the season | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says naming Bernardo Silva as City captain last summer stands as his best decision of the season.

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The inspirational Portuguese midfielder has again been a talismanic figure for City this term, skippering the side to Carabao Cup glory last month and also ensuring the Club are still in the hunt for both the Premier League title and FA Cup.

Having previously been part of City’s key leadership group, Bernardo was appointed captain for the first time by Guardiola last summer.

And addressing the media at Friday’s pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s return to Premier League action at Chelsea, the City boss spoke of his huge admiration and respect for the 31-year-old’s seismic contribution as leader this term.

“[Appointing Bernardo captain was] The best decision I made this season,” Guardiola stated.

“The previous ones [captains] have been good [so I] don’t say he’s better than the other ones.

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“Most of the captains I had, always you have to think what the team requires and not all can be possible.

“In the good moments the team comes first but in the bad moments it’s how you have to be, whether it’s against you, but you put the club ahead of you.

“Not everyone can do that.

“Last season was the biggest example [in terms of Bernardo’s leadership example].

“Last season was the toughest one, I understand the reason why, but he was always there.

“For nine years I know him quite well, and for the manager, all the managers will say the same as I’m saying.

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“You can love him because he’s an incredible competitor with a fire inside, in the toughest moments he’s always there.

“I said many times big games aren’t about being good or bad but about being there and being yourself.

“Since day one when he arrived, he’s had them.

“Leading by example, always playing, always training good.

“He’s been an incredible signing.”

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