Bernardo Silva becomes Portugal's new captain after Ronaldo's retirement

Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva has been named the new captain of the national team. This follows Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football. Head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed this news.

Jesus made the announcement on Friday while presenting Portugal's 28-man squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales.

Fabrizio Romano shared on X on Saturday, "Bernardo Silva will be the new captain of the Portuguese national team after Cristiano Ronaldo."

Portugal will play Denmark in Braga on November 14. After that, they will head to Cardiff to face Wales on November 17. These matches will mark a new beginning for the national team after Ronaldo's exit.

At a press conference at the Cidade do Futebol, Jesus explained that the captaincy was based on the number of international appearances. Silva leads a group of experienced players.

"Right now, there are five players with the most caps. Interestingly, all five of them have played for me at the clubs I’ve coached. We’ll stick with the same approach," Jesus said.

Silva has 115 international caps. He is followed by Bruno Fernandes with 97, Rúben Dias with 84, João Cancelo with 77, and Rúben Neves with 73.

Jesus confirmed that these five players will make up Portugal’s leadership group. The other captaincy duties will be shared based on their international experience.

This appointment comes after Ronaldo announced his retirement on Thursday. His retirement closes a remarkable 23-year career with Portugal.

The 41-year-old wrapped up his international career with 234 appearances and a record 146 goals for the national team. He also led Portugal to the 2016 European Championship title and two UEFA Nations League victories.

Silva honored Ronaldo after the announcement. He said it was a privilege to play alongside the legendary forward.

"It was without a doubt a great pride and pleasure to have played by your side for so many years. You are an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for everything," Silva posted on Instagram.

Jesus expressed his confidence in Silva’s leadership. He praised Silva's experience, quality, and current form at Real Madrid.

"Bernardo is a player with a lot of experience, with a lot of quality, who is in good form at Real Madrid. He is a starter in one of the best teams in the world," the Portugal coach said.

Silva has been a captain for Portugal in Ronaldo’s absence. Now, he will permanently take on the role as the European champions start their next chapter without their long-serving leader.