Bernardo Silva vows to lead Portugal through Ronaldo transition while battling for Real Madrid role

Bernardo Silva says Portugal must honour Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy as a new generation begins to take responsibility following the veteran forward’s departure.

Silva, 32, has become captain because he is the most-capped player in the squad. He was speaking at a news conference before Portugal’s match against Denmark in Braga, alongside manager Jorge Jesus.

“It was a long career for Cristiano, and I had the honour of playing alongside him for 12 years,” Silva said. “Of course, there is a lot of sadness, and this day was always going to come sooner or later.

“But we will continue, trying to honour Cristiano and thank him for everything he has done for the national team. The new generation is coming through, as happens in every area of life.”

Silva said the captaincy was a collective responsibility rather than one belonging solely to him.

“It is a great honour,” he said. “This responsibility does not belong to one player alone. It never has and it never will. It rests with a group of experienced players.

“We will do everything we can to welcome the younger players, ensure things run smoothly in the dressing room and maintain a very high level of work and commitment to the national team.”

The midfielder also reflected on the pressure Ronaldo carried throughout his Portugal career.

“Everyone knows the responsibility that comes with Cristiano,” Silva said. “Whenever he stepped on to the pitch, most people in the stands had come to watch him.

“So our players are accustomed to media attention, pressure and responsibility at their clubs. They are also used to being blamed when things do not go well. I do not see that as a major problem.”

Silva has also spoken openly about his own situation at Real Madrid, where he is not guaranteed a regular starting place.

“It is always difficult. Everyone wants to play and everyone wants to feel useful,” he said. “Throughout my career, I have been an influential player who played regularly. When I do not play, it is difficult, of course.

“The manager has 27 players, which is a lot, but only 11 can play at the same time. It is an extremely difficult job when he has to choose from a group with so much talent.”

Silva said he would remain ready to contribute regardless of how many minutes he receives.

“I can guarantee that I will always give my best, stay prepared, continue trying to improve and help the team in whatever it needs, whether I play 5, 10, 30 or 90 minutes,” he added. “Of course, I want to play and feel useful.”

He said his approach has changed over the past decade, making him more cautious and allowing him to operate in deeper midfield positions.

“I am now more restrained and thoughtful, and completely different from the player I was 10 years ago,” Silva said. “I believe the manager sees me as an eight or a 10, linking defence and attack, rather than primarily as a winger.

“The player he expects is someone who can do a little of everything: balance defence and attack, contribute to transitions, press and help with defensive duties.”