Manchester City sent a clear warning to the rest of the world on Thursday night with a resounding 5-2 thrashing of Juventus in their final group stage clash at the Club World Cup, an emphatic statement of intent ahead of the tournament’s climax in New Jersey on July 13.
The dominant display not only secured their progression but also marked a turning point for a team keen to bounce back after a rare trophyless campaign last season. Leading from the front was new club captain Bernardo Silva, who expressed optimism about the team’s resurgence.
“That’s the kind of performance we needed,” said the 30-year-old midfielder. “It’s not just about this tournament it’s about setting the tone for the entire season. Last year hurt, but we’re determined to come back stronger. Today showed what we’re capable of.”
Silva praised the overall performance, noting that City looked like the relentless, high-performing side fans have come to expect under Pep Guardiola. “It’s just one game, sure,” he said, “but the way we played tells a story. We’re hitting our stride again, reaching the standards this club is known for.”
The squad’s revamped midfield, featuring recent signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, impressed against Juventus, seamlessly slotting into Guardiola’s tactical system. Another new face, left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, also stood out with a confident display.
Silva, who was handed the captain’s armband ahead of his ninth season at the Etihad, sees his new role as both a privilege and a responsibility. “Becoming captain is a huge honour,” he said. “I’ve seen this club through highs and lows. That experience is something I want to pass on to the new generation.”
But the Portuguese international was quick to downplay the idea of singular leadership, instead advocating for a shared approach. “This isn’t about one person. We’ve got leaders all over the pitch Ruben, Rodri, Erling… We lead together. I’ll need their support just as much as they’ll need mine. That’s how we push each other to win again.”
With City firing on all cylinders and new talent already making an impact, Silva’s words seem less like ambition and more like a warning: the champions are regrouped, refocused, and ready to chase glory once more.
