Bernardo Silva gives 'inside look' at challenge of being Man City captain

"I try to be the same person I've always been," he said. "Even when I was young, I always tried to be an example, with the way I trained and the way I behaved every day."

Promoted to skipper for 2025/26, Bernardo admitted that guiding City's younger players has become a key part of his role. "It's about helping the youngsters adapt as quickly as possible," he said.

"At this club the responsibility and the level are always high. You have to fight for big things, and now it's my job to get that message across."

Pep Guardiola has repeatedly praised Bernardo's attitude and recently called him one of the best he has coached. The midfielder said their years together have created a bond shaped by trophies and constant evolution.

"It's very professional but also personal after eight and a half years," he said. "Pep is always changing things because he knows other teams will adapt if he doesn't. Winning six Premier League titles is not normal given the competition."

Bernardo added that consistency, not just big-match performances, will define City's season. "Every game counts the same, and we work as hard as we can to keep that level."

He also highlighted Erling Haaland's powerful start to the campaign. "He's a machine," he said. "When he gets a metre, it's a lot. It's very difficult for defenders and having a player like that makes all the difference."

Rayan Cherki's development also drew praise from the captain. "He can find passes that 99 per cent of players can't," he said. "He's adapting well, he has personality and confidence."

Manchester City host Leeds United today in their next Premier League fixture.