Bernardo Silva excited after first day at Real Madrid: ‘When they came calling, it was impossible to say no’

Bernardo Silva completed his first training session as a Real Madrid player after having finally arrived at Valdebebas today.

The 31-year-old playmaker was signed as a free agent this summer, following the expiry of his contract at Manchester City, at the express request of manager Jose Mourinho.

Having finally experienced his first day at Real Madrid, Silva spoke spoke to the club media about beginning a new chapter at the Santiago Bernabeu.

During the chat, the Portuguese international expressed his excitement about joining the club, working under Mourinho, and contributing to Real Madrid’s pursuit of more trophies.

Bernardo admitted that arriving at Real Madrid is a special moment in his career and said the club’s reputation needs no introduction.

“It’s very special, and I’m very happy to be here. There’s no need to talk about this club because its history speaks for itself,” he said.

“I’m very happy to get started and try to help this team keep winning, because that’s what it knows how to do: win, win and win. I’m just one more player here to help and try to continue that winning tradition of this incredible club.”

On first training session and working with Jose

After taking part in his first workout at Valdebebas, Bernardo joked that it had been a demanding introduction but said he already feels at home.

Already settling in. (Photo courtesy: X/RealMadrid)

“I’m tired. The first training session was tough, but I’m very happy to meet everyone and my teammates,” he said.

“I already knew some of them quite well because I’ve played against them many times, but now I’m happy to be on the same side and to start this preseason in a good way.

“Everyone is training with great intensity, and honestly this place already feels like home. I’m very happy to be here.”

Bernardo also spoke about finally working alongside Mourinho after spending years facing his teams as an opponent.

“We’ve been rivals a few times, and now we’re on the same side. I’m very happy because he’s a coach who means so much to Portuguese football,” said the midfielder, who has already been registered in La Liga by Real Madrid.

“Since I was young, we’ve always watched his teams, and he’s always put Portugal’s name at the highest level. I’m very happy to begin working with him and learning from him.”

Preferred role

Known for his versatility, Bernardo is someone who is being seen as a bit of a tactical wild card by Mourinho and his staff.

And the former Manchester City captai said his priority is helping the team in any role required.

“I’m a team player. I work hard and always try to make the players around me better. I feel that I’ll bring a lot of hard work and a lot of joy every day so we can prepare for matches in the best possible way,” he explained.

“I always try to be available to play in different positions to help the team. I’m a player who can fit in many roles, and I’ll be ready for whatever Real Madrid needs.”

On signing for Real Madrid

Having faced Real Madrid many times during his career, Bernardo said he always understood the magnitude of the club and never hesitated once the opportunity arrived.

“After playing against Real Madrid so many times, you feel how important the club is. You feel how special it is to play at the Bernabeu, which is such an imposing stadium,” remarked Silva.

“When Real Madrid came calling, it was impossible to say no. I didn’t think twice.”

“Being close to my family and close to Portugal, in a culture that’s very similar, also helps. But the dream of playing for the greatest club in football history, because the trophies prove that, is a privilege. I’m very happy,” he further noted.

Bernardo also revealed the players who influenced him most growing up, naming Zinedine Zidane, Rui Costa and Luka Modrić among his biggest inspirations.

“I have many role models, and Zidane is definitely one of them. Rui Costa as well, because he played for Benfica and Portugal,” he stated.

“And Modric has also been a huge inspiration and an example for me, not only because of how he plays but also because of the person he is off the pitch. I’ve spoken with him a few times, and he’s someone I admire greatly.

“Zidane is probably one of the top five players in football history. He played more or less in my position, and when I was a kid I loved watching the way he controlled the ball and played the game.”