Bernardo Silva Picks Real Madrid
Bernardo Silva has agreed to join Real Madrid following his exit from Manchester City after 9 years as a free agent. He agreed to a contract of two years plus an option to extend for another year with Real Madrid, reports Fabrizio Romano
Barcelona and Atlético Left Empty-Handed
Initially Barcelona and Athletic Madrid were the frontrunners to sign the Portuguese midfielder, but Jose Mourinho put forward Bernardo's name as a priority for him in the board meeting with the hierarchy of Real Madrid, which resulted in immediate intervention of Los Blancos in the deal and finalized all terms with the player in the span of 36 hours.
Both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid held several rounds of discussions with the player. His initial priority was to join Barcelona, but Atletico offered him the better role as a successor to Antoine Griezmann with an attractive salary.
The player was about to make a final decision regarding a new chapter of his career after the World Cup, but he was convinced by Jose Mourinho’s project at Real Madrid with an important role for him in the midfield.
Experience Arrives at the Bernabéu
Bernardo had a long, successful spell with Manchester City in England; the experience and leadership quality of a serial winner like Bernardo will be useful for Real Madrid in the midfield that lacks stability and leadership.
Bernardo is happy with the role offered by Real Madrid even though the gross salary is less than what he earned with Manchester City.
The playmaker will join Real Madrid after the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal.
This is the third signing of Real Madrid under José Mourinho after Ibhrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries.
Madrid Continue Midfield Hunt
As per Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are aiming for one more midfield signing to dictate the game from the deep. Enzo Fernández of Chelsea and Mateus Fernández of West Ham are the options that Real Madrid are considering for that position, as both are highly appreciated by José Mourinho.