'I hate losing, guard of honor is hypocritical' - Bernardo Silva reveals

Pep Guardiola has appointed Bernardo Silva as Manchester City's captain for this season, following the departure of Kevin De Bruyne.

Following a disappointing previous campaign, the scars are still visible, but the Citizens are determined to return to winning ways in 2025/2026.

"It's not about winning or losing. It's about competing for the title, and we didn't even try last season. I think, emotionally, we are coming back. I mean, we're hungry again. I hate losing. I played 12 years at Benfica, and there we were taught not to be happy if we lose.

"You need to be direct with the players. I think the experience was good because, above all, we learned to appreciate what we had done in the past, which isn't normal. Six titles in seven years is absurd. It's probably not going to happen again," he said in an interview with the Daily Mail, via Sportal.

"There's a lot of... I'd say guilt. Guilt from the players, the manager... everyone, that we didn't do our best to overcome the situation. We want things to get back to normal. Normal is fighting for every title," he added, discussing his captaincy.

"I think this is the most important task. Not just mine, but all the captains'. We need to create the right balance in the dressing room. I'd say the right balance is good behavior and respect, performing well in training, giving our best for the club. You learn who you can go to war with and who you can't rely on. I hope this has been a good lesson for us," he noted.

In 2020, Bernardo Silva refused to applaud champions Liverpool during the traditional guard of honor given by City.

"We don't have this tradition in Portugal. I think when you win a title, you don't need anyone to applaud you. It's a bit hypocritical, but fine – if they want, they can do it. I wouldn't applaud Liverpool, because I don't celebrate losing," he concluded.