Scout Report – Bernardo Silva
Manchester United are reportedly closing in on the signature of AS Monaco midfielder Bernardo Silva this summer. Jose Mourinho is desperate to add quality to his first team next season and is convinced that Silva can be a good option for his side. But who is Bernardo Silva and what will he add to the squad at Old Trafford? Here is a mini-scout report of the player:
History
Born and brought up in Lisbon, Portugal, Silva started his youth career with Benfica, one of the most productive academies in the world. He spent 10 seasons in the domestic circuit at the club before making his first appearance for the B side in 2013. He was the first choice that season for the Benfica B side before he was sent out on loan to AS Monaco.
He played 15 games in his first season in France and Monaco decided to keep him on a permanent basis in 2015. Since then, Silva has already played 79 games for the club, scoring 20 league goals. His first season on loan at Monaco saw him earn a place in the national side, where he has 12 senior appearances to his name and is now the first-choice midfielder for the Euro’16 winners.
Strengths, Weaknesses & Style of Play
Standing as one of the most versatile players in Europe at the moment, the 22-year old has played in seven different positions for the French side this season and has 9 goals and 7 assists to his name in all competitions. A winger who loves to play on the right side, Silva is not a genuine attacking winger who bursts into the space behind the backline.
He is rather the kind of a player who uses his strength to hold up play and is capable of creating chances for his side with his sublime vision and passing abilities. He is skilful and is deadly with his finishing but is also aware of his defensive duties. He is a hard worker who Mourinho will love to work with.
Though he still has to learn how to dominate opponents in the air, Silva has learnt enough to get by without being strong in the air. However, that is a trait that can damage his reputation in England.
His future
He is possibly moving closer to Old Trafford and though the Monaco vice-president insists that he is not up for sale, a move to Manchester United could on the cards. Monaco is an exciting venture for the 22-year old but he will not want to miss out on an opportunity to play alongside some best young talents like Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard, under a manager who has the formula to win titles.