Bernardo Silva: "Mahrez told me to take care of Aït Nouri"!

Africa 18 June 2025 at 10:12

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Manchester City’s Portuguese midfielder, Bernardo Silva, has revealed the behind-the-scenes story of a private conversation with his former teammate Riyad Mahrez, right after Algerian international Rayan Aït Nouri joined the Skyblues.

"Take care of him": Mahrez's message to Bernardo Silva about Aït Nouri

Speaking from the United States, where City are currently competing in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Silva recounted: "I spoke with Riyad last week, and even again yesterday. He’s a very close friend, and I miss him a lot. When the club made Rayan Aït Nouri’s signing official, he immediately called me and said: ‘take care of him.’ He asked me to stay close to him, support him, and help him settle in well."

The Benfica academy product then praised the young Algerian’s attitude:

"For his first week with us, Rayan has shown excellent behavior. He’s a very promising young player who will definitely contribute a lot to the team. And we’ll be there to support him whenever he needs help. He has a ton of talent, and the squad is ready to back him."

Bernardo Silva, who shared the City dressing room with Mahrez for five seasons, also highlighted the class of his former teammate’s gesture: "Riyad isn’t just a former teammate, he’s a real friend. His message about Rayan shows just how much he cares about the success of his fellow countrymen. Aït Nouri is a gifted player with an exemplary mindset, which will help him adapt very quickly."

As a reminder, Rayan Aït Nouri, the Algerian national team’s left-back, joined Manchester City from Wolverhampton in a transfer reportedly worth €42 million, including bonuses, according to multiple British outlets. The deal was finalized just before the start of the Club World Cup.

Also read: Rayan Aït Nouri explains why he signed for Manchester City!