He doesnt have the qualities — Guardiola slammed for adding 24-year-old to Man City captains

He doesnt have the qualities — Guardiola slammed for adding 24-year-old to Man City captains

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 18:40 - 20.06.2025

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has been criticised for his decision to include one of the club's star players to the leadership group.

Pep Guardiola named Bernardo Silva as Manchester City’s new captain, taking the unusual step of personally selecting Kevin De Bruyne’s successor rather than leaving it to the players.

The Spaniard also added Erling Haaland to the club’s leadership group, a move that has puzzled former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy. Since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Haaland has been a sensation, racking up 121 goals and 20 assists in 143 appearances.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland made ESPN's list despite his team's struggles (Credit: Imago)

However, Murphy, speaking on talkSPORT, questioned Haaland’s suitability for a leadership role.“No, not yet, I don’t see that at all,” Murphy said when asked if Haaland was captain material.

“He plays up front, which is hard enough. He doesn’t seem demonstrative or verbally constructive, let’s say. With all the quality and leadership they have got at Man City. Bernardo Silva. Even Rodri, he plays more by example. He is not a rocketer, he doesn’t go after people.

Erling Haaland

“It is very hard for Haaland because he plays so high up the pitch that even if he had the qualities, it is hard to empower others when you are so far away from them.”

Silva’s appointment as captain has sparked mixed reactions, especially with his contract set to expire next summer, but Guardiola’s decision is final, and fans will need to embrace it.