Bernardo Silva Explains Liverpool Guard of Honour Snub

Bernardo Silva has addressed the controversy surrounding his refusal to participate in the Liverpool guard of honour in 2020, clarifying his stance and sharing his true feelings about the tradition.

Bernardo Silva Opens Up on Guard of Honour Incident

Bernardo Silva, the Manchester City midfielder, made headlines in 2020 when he notably refused to join his teammates in giving newly-crowned Premier League champions Liverpool a guard of honour at the Etihad Stadium. The gesture is a longstanding tradition in English football, offered as a sign of respect to the league winners. However, Silva has now revealed why he opted out of the event, describing himself as a “bad loser” and expressing his views on what he calls “hypocrisy” within the custom.

Speaking openly for the first time about the incident, Silva said, “I’m a really bad loser, and I just don’t like doing the guard of honour. It feels hypocritical. If you lose, you lose, and that’s it. There’s no need for a show.” His comments shed light on the competitive mindset of top athletes, and how certain rituals, while well-intentioned, might clash with personal beliefs.

Why Bernardo Silva Opposes the Guard of Honour

The primary focus keyword, Bernardo Silva, has always been known for his fierce competitiveness and high standards on the pitch. For him, the guard of honour represents more than just a simple gesture—it’s a public acknowledgment of defeat that doesn’t sit well with his drive to win. Silva explained, “If you work all year for a title and then lose it, having to clap for your rivals is tough. It’s not authentic for me.”

Other players have, in the past, expressed similar sentiments, but Silva’s open admission has reignited debate about the necessity and appropriateness of such traditions in modern football. He also acknowledged that while some consider the gesture respectful, for him, it would feel forced and insincere.

The 2020 Incident: Reactions and Fallout

During that fateful match in July 2020, Manchester City lined up to applaud Liverpool onto the field after the Reds secured the Premier League title with several games to spare. Cameras caught Bernardo Silva leaving his position early, avoiding the full gesture. This sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with some fans criticizing his perceived lack of sportsmanship, while others defended his honesty and competitive spirit.

Pep Guardiola, City’s manager, defended his player at the time, stating that every individual handles disappointment differently. “We respect Liverpool’s achievement, but we also respect our players’ feelings,” Guardiola commented.

The Guard of Honour Tradition in Football

The guard of honour is a well-established tradition in English football, intended as a public display of respect for the champions. While some see it as a classy move, others, like Bernardo Silva, believe it puts unnecessary emphasis on defeat. This divisive aspect is exactly why Silva’s comments have resonated with many, challenging the narrative that such gestures are universally welcomed by players.

Bernardo Silva’s Competitive Edge

Silva’s admission that he is a “bad loser” offers insight into the mentality that has made him one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers. His drive to win at all costs, combined with a refusal to celebrate others’ victories when he is on the losing side, showcases the passion that fuels elite-level athletes. “For me, football is about winning, and if you lose, you have to accept it and move on. You don’t need to perform a show for others,” he said.

How Clubs and Fans View the Guard of Honour

Reactions from clubs and fans have been mixed. While some purists argue that the tradition upholds the spirit of sportsmanship, others agree with Silva that it is outdated and creates awkward situations for players. The debate has sparked discussions about whether such rituals should be continued or adapted in the future.

Bernardo Silva’s Perspective and Legacy

By speaking out, Bernardo Silva has added a new dimension to the conversation about the guard of honour and sportsmanship in football. His willingness to be honest—even at the risk of criticism—demonstrates the complexity of emotions that top athletes experience. The episode remains a talking point among fans, analysts, and even other players.

For more news and updates on football culture and player perspectives, visit for more news.

Opinion: Should the Guard of Honour Tradition Continue?

While traditions have their place in football, Silva’s candid perspective deserves consideration. Rituals should be rooted in authenticity, not obligation. The guard of honour may be a noble concept, but as the game evolves, it’s crucial to consider the feelings of the players involved. Genuine respect is best shown on the pitch through fair play and hard competition—not necessarily through formal gestures.