Bernardo Silva shared that Manchester City’s inconsistent Premier League season has fueled their motivation to pursue UEFA Champions League glory. As the 2023 winners face a tough challenge of overturning a 3-2 aggregate deficit against Real Madrid in the second leg at the Bernabeu, Silva believes the Champions League offers the best chance for redemption.
In an exclusive interview with TNT Sports, Silva said: “Knowing that the Premier League is done for us, our goal is now completely different. We know that if we stay in this competition, anything can happen. The draw against Madrid wasn’t ideal, but we are motivated to achieve something in this competition, understanding that it is both special and difficult to win.”
City were poised to take a 2-1 lead into Madrid before Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham turned the tie around. Silva emphasized the need to avoid costly mistakes and limit the space for Real Madrid’s dangerous players like Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior.
“We had a good chance to come here with a better result, but I know we’ve conceded too many goals in the final minutes this season due to mistakes. At this level, you pay a high price, especially against a team like Real Madrid,” he added. “It’s frustrating, but we still feel alive in the tie. It’s a goal and we believe we can get a positive result, even though the situation is more difficult than before.”
The 30-year-old, who has scored four goals in nine appearances against Madrid, including a brace in the memorable 4-0 Champions League semi-final second leg in April 2023, spoke about his record: “No pressure. I always try my best, whether I play or not. I’m here to help control the game and create chances. I’m happy with that record, but it doesn’t matter unless we win and make things difficult for them tomorrow. Matches against them are always tough for both sides. We want to make it challenging for them.”
Silva also discussed the impact of the January signings, particularly Omar Marmoush, who scored a hat-trick in a 4-0 win over Newcastle. The 26-year-old has adapted well to life in English football.
“New energy is always good. When you’ve had a successful team like ours over the past seven or eight years, you need fresh blood,” Silva explained. “It helps put pressure on the guys who are already playing, creating competition within the team, and bringing something new. Over time, the mind gets tired, and you need new players. It’s great that they’ve come to help bring new energy to the team.”