Bernardo Silva might not be a Manchester City player right now were it not for the influence of former players Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani.
Silva, 23, completed a £43 million move from Monaco in the summer after dazzling City boss Pep Guardiola in the Champions League last season.
The Portugal international was wanted by some of the top teams across Europe but the possibility of working with Guardiola was vital in his final decision.
“When I was with Portugal at the Confederations Cup and about to sign, I asked Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani about the city. They told me how much they enjoyed it here,” he said.
“They said that all of the people were great and that it’s a real football city. The Premier League, too — a competitive league with full stadiums each week and everyone watching. They both said it would be a great move.”
“The Champions League is more difficult to win,” he said. “Of course, the Premier League isn’t easy to win, but the Champions League has all of the best teams in Europe, so it’s as good as it gets. Manchester City have never won it either, so I want to make history.
“We have a lot of young players with a lot of quality. Throw in some experience as well and we’ve got a team who can compete on all fronts.
“The Premier League title is a big goal for the club this season, but the Champions League is huge. When you’re at a club like City, you have to fight to win every competition.”
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