Fernando Santos has thrown his full support behind Bernardo Silva ahead of the midfielder’s first season at Real Madrid, describing the Portuguese international as a “phenomenon” both on and off the pitch.
Speaking to AS, the former Portugal manager reflected on his years working with Bernardo and explained why he believes the midfielder is perfectly suited to succeed under José Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Santos was full of praise for Bernardo’s qualities as both a footballer and a person.
“As a footballer, everyone already knows Bernardo Silva. He has immense quality and sees the game like very few players in the world do. His standards as a player are so high that it’s difficult to say he’s at the same level as a person, but in his case, it’s true. He’s attentive, polite, kind, and always has a smile on his face. On a personal and human level, he’s one of the best footballers I’ve met in my entire career. Real Madrid has signed a phenomenon in every sense of the word.”
The veteran coach believes Bernardo’s football intelligence is what separates him from many of the world’s elite players, highlighting both his tactical awareness and versatility.
“His intelligence makes him a game-changer. He’s an extremely strong player technically and extraordinary tactically. He understands the game very well and can perfectly read every match situation. He always knows what to do with the ball and how to position himself when he doesn’t have it. I’ve used him as an attacking midfielder, as an attacking midfielder, and even as a winger, and his performance has been excellent in every position.”
Santos also rejected any suggestion that Bernardo’s best years are behind him despite several demanding seasons with Manchester City.
“From what I’ve seen this season at City, I’d say yes, he’s still at his best. I know him very well and I’m convinced he still has many great years ahead of him. He’s still at the peak of his career and he’s going to prove it. For me, he’s still one of the best in the world. I think Real Madrid made the right move signing him and he’s going to contribute a lot to the team.”
Asked about how Mourinho could deploy the Portuguese international, Santos said Bernardo’s adaptability makes him an ideal fit regardless of position.
“Great players know how to adapt to every situation and circumstance in a match. He’s very good at that and won’t have any problem playing wherever he’s asked. I’m sure Mourinho has a specific role in mind for him, and Bernardo will fulfill it perfectly.”
Santos expects Bernardo to quickly establish himself as an important figure in Madrid’s starting lineup.
“He’s used to competing, and his quality will earn him a starting spot. I think he’s destined for a very important role, which is why Mourinho requested him. He might play closer to the right wing and drift inside occasionally, but wherever they put him, he’ll do phenomenally well thanks to his tactical intelligence and his reading of the game. Mourinho is smart, very knowledgeable about strategy, and he’ll get the best out of him.”
The former Portugal boss also believes Bernardo has the qualities to play in a deeper midfield role if required, although he feels the player is most dangerous further forward.
“Based on his understanding of the game and his skill level, he could do it without a problem. In fact, we already saw him and Bruno as the central midfield pairing against Uzbekistan. Alongside a more positional midfielder, he could perfectly orchestrate the team’s play, but in my opinion, he’s more effective the closer he is to the opponent’s goal.”
Santos was equally complimentary of Bernardo’s defensive work rate, insisting the midfielder contributes far more than just creativity.
“He proved his defensive commitment during his time at City. He may seem physically fragile, but on the pitch he’s bursting with energy and always puts his skills at the service of the team. He never holds back on a run and often intercepts passes from the opposition thanks to his ability to position himself on the field and anticipate the opponents’ plays.”
When asked whether Bernardo’s style resembles that of Luka Modrić, Santos acknowledged similarities while stopping short of making a direct comparison.
“I don’t really like comparing footballers because each one has their own characteristics, but it’s clear him and Modric have similarities in their playing style. I’d say the two main ones, which they both have in common, are their enormous technical ability and their commitment to the team.”
The experienced manager also dismissed concerns that the pressure of playing at the Bernabéu could affect Bernardo.
“The Bernabeu pressure won’t be a problem for him at all. He has plenty of experience, he’s been at some very big clubs, and he’ll know how to handle the high demands that Real Madrid will require. Bernardo will rise to the occasion.”
Santos finished by expressing complete confidence that Bernardo will become a fan favorite in Madrid.
“I am very convinced he will succeed. I think the Real Madrid fans, who are very knowledgeable and have seen the best footballers in the world play in their stadium, will love Bernardo Silva. I think he won’t disappoint and will more than live up to the expectations placed on him. I’m sure he’s very motivated because he likes challenges, and this one he has is a huge one. He’s a magnificent player, of great talent. And he’s going to prove it in white…”
