Mansion Sports – Bernardo Silva has officially begun his life as a Real Madrid player, completing his first training session at Valdebebas following his major free transfer move from Manchester City.

The Portuguese creative midfielder, who arrived at Santiago Bernabeu at the special request of Jose Mourinho, admitted that the presence of his compatriot in the coaching position made the decision to move to Spain an easy one.

Mourinho’s Influence on Silva’s Decision

Silva revealed the major role Jose Mourinho played in his decision to leave Manchester City and join Real Madrid this summer.

The 31-year-old midfielder, who joined the Spanish giants on a free transfer after his contract at the Etihad Stadium expired, emphasized that the opportunity to work with the legendary Portuguese coach was one of the main reasons behind his move.

"We were rivals several times, and now we are on the same side. I am very happy because he is a coach who has had a huge impact on Portuguese football," Silva explained to Real Madrid’s television channel while discussing his move to the Spanish capital.

The former Monaco player emphasized that his admiration for Mourinho has existed since childhood, making the opportunity to be coached by him at the Bernabeu a very special opportunity.

Silva added: "Since I was young, we always watched his teams, and he always took Portugal’s name to the highest level. I am very happy to start working with him and learn from him."

A Challenging Introduction at Valdebebas

Silva’s first day at the club’s training facilities proved to be demanding, as he was immediately integrated into the high-intensity training sessions that have become a trademark of Mourinho’s preseason preparations.

Despite experiencing the physical demands of his first training session, the midfielder showed great enthusiasm while greeting his new teammates, many of whom he had frequently faced in Champions League matches over the past several years.

"I am tired. The first training session was quite difficult, but I am very happy to meet everyone and my new teammates," Silva said after completing the session.

He explained that his familiarity with several players made his first day easier:

"I already know some of them quite well because I have often played against them, but now I am happy to be on the same side and start this preseason well. Everyone is training with high intensity, and honestly, this place already feels like home. I am very happy to be here."

A Dream Move to the Bernabeu

After enjoying several successful seasons in the Premier League, Silva revealed that the appeal of Real Madrid was something he could not ignore when the club showed interest in him.

He admitted that the club’s reputation speaks for itself and that its continued tradition of success perfectly matches his personal ambitions.

"This is very special, and I am very happy to be here. There is no need to talk about this club because its history speaks for itself," Silva said.

He then explained how difficult it was to reject the opportunity to join an institution as big as Real Madrid:

"After playing against Real Madrid many times, you can feel how important this club is. You can feel how special it is to play at the Bernabeu, such a magnificent stadium. When Real Madrid came, it was impossible to say no. I did not think twice."

Tactical Flexibility and Inspiration from Legends

Silva emphasized his commitment to the team’s overall success, stating that his main objective is to help the club maintain its winning tradition.

He also spoke about the figures who have inspired him in football, mentioning Zinedine Zidane and Luka Modric as players who have shaped his understanding of the game.

"I am a team-oriented player. I work hard and always try to make the players around me better. I feel that I will bring a lot of hard work and a lot of happiness every day so that we can prepare for matches in the best possible way," Silva said regarding his role.

Regarding his football idols, he added:

"I have many role models, and Zidane is certainly one of them. Rui Costa as well, because he played for Benfica and Portugal."