Bernardo Silva drops from Portugal's starting XI at World Cup

Portugal midfielder Bernardo Silva, who joined Real Madrid this summer after leaving Manchester City, entered the 2022 World Cup as a expected key player for his national team. Coach Roberto Martinez has progressively reduced his role, benching him for the group‑stage match against Colombia and limiting him to a 28‑minute cameo in the round of 16 loss to Croatia. He has been overtaken in the attacking lineup by Rafael Leão, Pedro Neto and João Félix.

Silva will return to Real Madrid, where manager José Mourinho faces the task of integrating a player praised for his control, technique and tactical balance, despite his limited impact at the tournament.