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New BBC series delves into football's biggest personalities
The BBC has launched The Football Interview, a fresh series where host Kelly Somers engages with prominent figures in sport and entertainment for candid discussions about football. Episodes will explore motivation, pivotal career moments, and personal reflections, offering viewers a deeper look at the individuals behind the players.
The series premieres this Saturday, 13 December, with new episodes available on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website. This week's interview will air on BBC One at 23:20 GMT (00:05 in Scotland on Sunday, 14 December).
Bernardo Silva: Guardiola's most trusted player
Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva holds the record for the most appearances under manager Pep Guardiola, with over 400 selections since joining the club in 2017. Together, they have secured six Premier League titles, while Silva has also claimed two Nations League trophies with Portugal.
In an exclusive conversation with Somers, Silva shared insights into his experience playing under Guardiola, his most memorable matches, and his ambition to win the World Cup.
Early passion and family ties
Silva revealed that football was an easy choice for him, driven by a lifelong passion. "Since I can remember, I always had a ball with me at home," he said, recalling how his enthusiasm occasionally led to minor household mishaps. His father, a Benfica supporter, and his mother, a Sporting fan, created a divided household, though both were supportive of his career.
"I played 12 years at Benfica," Silva noted, reflecting on his formative years at the club from age seven to 19. "It was always my dream to play for them."
Key influences and career-defining moments
When asked about the biggest influences on his career, Silva highlighted his time at Benfica and Manchester City. "Benfica shaped me as a player and as a person," he explained, crediting the club with instilling resilience and football knowledge. Monaco provided his first taste of top-level competition, while City exceeded his expectations, delivering six Premier League titles.
Among his mentors, Silva singled out Guardiola and former Monaco teammate João Moutinho. "Pep is a massive influence," he said, acknowledging Guardiola's recent praise for his abilities. He also cited City legends like Vincent Kompany, David Silva, and Fernandinho as key figures in his development.
Highs, lows, and the road ahead
Silva named the 2023 Champions League final-a 1-0 victory over Inter Milan-as the match he would relive. However, he also reflected on tough losses, including the 2021 final against Chelsea and a heartbreaking semi-final exit to Real Madrid in 2022.
Addressing City's recent challenges, Silva acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining their earlier dominance. "We're trying to bring that culture back," he said, noting the departure of key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker. Despite the obstacles, he remains optimistic about the club's potential to rebound.
"If you don't win, you don't deserve to be here," he stated, emphasizing the high expectations at City. "We're in a much better position this season."
Personal reflections and future ambitions
Silva described himself as an energetic and passionate child, with his earliest non-football memory involving playful sibling rivalries. His sisters, though not football enthusiasts, remain his biggest supporters. Close friend and teammate Rúben Dias was named as his closest ally in the sport.
Outside football, Silva finds balance through his family. "My daughter and wife help me forget about losses," he shared. His ideal day off involves walks with his dogs, John and Charles-named after John Stones and Prince Charles, respectively.
When asked about life after football, Silva admitted uncertainty. "I have no clue what I'd do," he said, though he expressed interest in coaching if he misses the game. His ultimate career goal? "A World Cup," he said. "It's the only trophy Portugal has never won."
"Don't be afraid of failing. Go for it. And have fun-when you enjoy what you do, you do it better."
Bernardo Silva on the best advice he's received
