Bernardo Silva says his first appearance for Real Madrid is only the beginning, with the Portugal midfielder admitting he still has plenty to improve during the club’s preparations for the new season.
Silva made his debut in Real Madrid’s 2-1 friendly victory over Hungarian side Ferencvarosi on Saturday evening. Although he was pleased to finally wear the club’s shirt in a match, he stressed that his immediate priority is to build up the rhythm required to begin the campaign strongly.
“I’m very happy and extremely satisfied to have played my first match. It is still only the first week, and I still have many things to improve,” Silva said after the game.
Speaking to Real Madrid’s official channel, the midfielder explained that gaining match sharpness is currently the central focus of the work being carried out during pre-season.
“The most important thing is to gain the rhythm needed to start the season well, and that is what we are working on,” he said.
Silva also outlined the different ways in which he intends to contribute to Real Madrid. Rather than limiting himself to one clear role, he said he is prepared to adapt according to what the team requires in different areas of the pitch.
“I’m trying to give the team what it needs at the moment. Sometimes I’m more involved in building up play, sometimes I move further forward, or I focus on pressing or being in the final third,” he said.
“I’m trying to help the team in several different areas, and I will be there to help in any way possible.”
The Portuguese player added that returning from his holiday had been difficult, but said he was pleased to have started taking part in matches. He also highlighted the importance of developing an understanding with his new team-mates as he becomes more familiar with their individual qualities.
“The return from holiday was difficult, but I’m very happy that I’ve started playing. I’m trying to get to know my team-mates, because it is important to know their characteristics and understand what they like during matches and in training,” Silva said.
His comments underline the adjustment still required before the start of the season, with the midfielder using the preparation period to learn how his colleagues operate and how best to fit into the team’s demands.
Silva ended by promising to make full use of the time available before the campaign begins and to prepare as thoroughly as possible.
“I will prepare in the best way possible so that I can start the season well,” he said.
