Bernardo Silva named Portugal captain in post-Cristiano era

Real Madrid midfielder Bernardo Silva described taking over as Portugal captain following Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement as a "great honour" and "pride", ahead of Saturday's Nations League match against Denmark.

Bernardo Silva has been named Portugal captain following Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football last month. The Real Madrid midfielder, 32, spoke at a press conference in Braga ahead of Portugal's Nations League fixture against Denmark on Saturday, describing the appointment as "a great honour" and "a sign that I've been here a long time and have been able to represent the national team for many years."

Silva reflected on his 12-year international partnership with Ronaldo, calling his departure "a sad moment" but acknowledging it was inevitable. "I only know the national team with Cristiano. It will be a different chapter for all of us," he said. "For me it's sad because it was a pride and an honour to have shared a dressing room with him."

Portugal, the reigning Nations League champions, have already qualified for the next phase and need only a point against Denmark to top Group A4. Silva expressed optimism about the team's direction under new manager Jorge Jesus, noting they have "grown and improved" in their first four matches, though he acknowledged recent tournament disappointments.