Bernardo Silva On Real Madrid’s Aura In The Champions League: “It’s Not About The Badge”
We are just a day away from Real Madrid’s blockbuster encounter against Manchester City in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals.
Coming on the back of Copa Del Rey triumph at the weekend, Real Madrid are heading into this game full of confidence, especially taking into account their form in the knockout stages. The reigning champions swept aside Liverpool and Chelsea in the knockout rounds.
Following the performances, a lot has been said about Real Madrid’s pedigree at the highest level of football, which was particularly highlighted by former Arsenal striker Ian Wright.
Heading into this game, Manchester City playmaker Bernardo Silva talked about Real Madrid’s success as well, but instead of highlighting their pedigree in the competition, he praised the role of veterans, which play a crucial role in the club’s success.
“It’s not about the badge. If Real Madrid didn’t have Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, Vinicius or Karim Benzema they wouldn’t win anything, because the shirt doesn’t do it by itself,” Silva said (h/t Diario AS).
The likes of Modric, Kroos and Benzema have indeed played a critical role for Real Madrid this season. They have been ever-present figures in the club’s starting eleven, using their experience and leadership to guide the team out of tricky situations over the past decade.
While not a veteran, Vinicius, too, has been of great importance for Los Blancos. The forward, who has 22 goals and 21 assists in all competitions this season, was involved in six goals during the last two knockout rounds of the Champions League.
Silva’s words, therefore, certainly have a pinch of truth attached to them, though it must also be highlighted that Real Madrid, as a team, have an abundance of experience in the Champions League, which in turn, often turns useful when facing a stern opponent like Man City.
Despite pointing out the role of key players in the Real Madrid team, Silva has no intention of undermining the club’s pedigree.
“We would be stupid if we didn’t respect them, but we have that goal (to eliminate Real Madrid), knowing that we lost last year in difficult circumstances. This time we will try to make it different,” he said.
