Bernardo Silva takes CR7's armband as Portugal captain

On July 6 2026 (JULY 06), at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Cristiano Ronaldo exchanges a conspiratorial glance with his teammate Bernardo Silva #10 during the FIFA World Cup 2026 round‑of‑16 match between Portugal and Spain.

On the same day, Portugal officially announced that the 32‑year‑old midfielder succeeds CR7 as the new captain of the Seleção.

Bernardo Silva named captain

Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed on Friday that Silva will wear the armband, a decision relayed by AFP’s Discover feed in the Sports section.
“The captain is chosen by his number of matches. The logic will remain the same and the player with the most caps after Cristiano Ronaldo is Bernardo Silva,” he said.

In international football, Portuguese football relies on experience: Bernardo Silva, 32 years old.
He has already won the Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

Jorge Jesus added: “I have to accept it, even though I would have preferred him to stay,” speaking about Ronaldo’s departure.
A new era begins for the national team, the new leader having to guide the transition to a post‑CR7 generation.