- Bernardo Silva is set to leave Man City
- The Portugal midfielder was made club captain last year
- Now City will need to identify a new leader
Bernardo Silva is set to leave Manchester City this summer, meaning Pep Guardiola will need to appoint a new captain.
Here are three players who could have what it takes to be entrusted with the armband which carries so much weight.
Gianluigi Donnarumma has captained his country
Since Gianluigi Donnarumma made the move to Man City, he has been a regular starter in the Premier League.
The Italian is a natural leader. In fact, he is the youngest player to captain the Italian national team since 1965.
Donnarumma is a Champions League winning goalkeeper with lots of European football experience and he has had a season to adapt to the English game. Therefore, he would be a solid choice to become the next captain.
Ruben Dias knows Man City well
If Guardiola would prefer for Silva’s successor to have spent more time as a Man City player, Ruben Dias is the perfect option.
The defender first wore the captain’s armband in September 2021 and he has served as one of the club’s vice-captains this season.
Dias is facing more competition for his spot in the team since Marc Guehi’s arrival, but he will continue to fight for his place, as he looks to lead by example.
Rodri could captain Man City if he stays
During the March international break, Rodri has captained Spain. Therefore, he should have no problem as the skipper of Man City too.
The 29-year-old has already led his club in certain matches when Silva has not featured and he is a strong figure of authority in the middle of the park.
However, Rodri’s contract expires next summer and his recent links with Real Madrid could destroy his chances.
Pep Guardiola might not appoint the next captain
Guardiola has a unique style and he usually lets his squad vote on who become the next captain. Despite this, Silva was the manager’s own personal choice.
Still, the next Man City captain might end up being appointed by a different coach entirely, with Guardiola’s future beyond the summer currently unknown.
If he decides to end his time in Manchester a year early, it will be down to whoever is appointed as his replacement to raise up a new leader.
