Manchester City prepare to welcome Red Star Belgrade to the Etihad on Tuesday as the European Champions open the return of Champions League football.
During the Manchester City press conference, Pep Guardiola was joined by Kyle Walker.
Speaking as a confirmed captain, Walker shared the news of Manchester City’s new captaincy team.
He will be leading the squad alongside four teammates; Kevin De Bruyne, Ruben Dias, Rodri and Bernardo Silva.
©️🩵 pic.twitter.com/mDnyH5Om8C
— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 18, 2023
However, with De Bruyne out long-term we will not see him captain the side until December at least.
In a unique democracy that Guardiola has embedded at the club, it is the squad players that vote for their captains.
Nevertheless, some fans on social media were keen to see the captaincy go to a younger figure. Despite City’s success over recent seasons with short-term captains following the departure of Kompany.
Ruben Dias for me. We need a captain for next 5 years.
— Pepaholic (@Pepaholic07) September 18, 2023
While the club tied Bernardo to a new contract this summer, which put to bed rumours of an exit, he is now a recognised leader.
Walker quipped about the Portuguese midfielders relationship with the boss during the press conference. Reported by MEN journalist Joe Bray:
“Bernardo’s shown on the pitch how important he is. Off the pitch what you don’t see; He’s got a really good relationship with the manager, if we want days off, we’ll get him to ask.”
Meanwhile, Walker admits that leading the lads is an “honour” for him and a role that he takes seriously.
