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Antonio Silva Outlines What AFC Bournemouth Supporters Can Expect
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- Antonio Silva Outlines What AFC Bournemouth Supporters Can Expect
Antonio Silva Outlines What AFC Bournemouth Supporters Can Expect
AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of Portuguese international centre-back António Silva from Benfica, adding one of Portugal's most highly regarded young defenders to Marco Rose's squad.
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The 22-year-old arrives with considerable experience despite still being in the early stages of his career, having already played regularly in domestic and European competition as well as representing Portugal on the international stage.
He was linked with high profile moves to the Premier League previously, with his release clause over triple than what Cherries have recently paid - a price that is said to be approximately £21.3 million guaranteed plus add-ons.
Silva came through Benfica's academy before establishing himself in the first team, collecting domestic silverware and experiencing Champions League football during his time in Lisbon.
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His performances also earned international recognition, with Silva making his Portugal debut as a teenager. He has since accumulated 20 senior caps and represented his country at the 2022 World Cup, European Championship and UEFA Nations League.
Speaking to AFCBTV after completing his move, Silva revealed Bournemouth's ambition - and the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League - played a major role in his decision.
"I think in the Premier League we play almost Champions League games every week," he said. "That was crucial for me to choose Bournemouth".
"I think the best in life is to play for this kind of club and in this kind of league, so I can't wait to play."
Antonio Silva at a young age
Pinto played crucial role in Silva decision
Bournemouth's pursuit of Silva had been developing for several weeks, with the defender confirming President of Football Operations Tiago Pinto was heavily involved in convincing him to make the switch. Despite being right-footed, he is being seen as the natural successor to Marcos Senesi .
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Silva and Pinto's relationship stretches back to the defender's time within Benfica's academy, and the Cherries' project was extensively discussed before an agreement was reached.
"It was crucial for me to come here because he spoke with me a lot of times," Silva explained. "He showed me the project, so it was easy for me to choose Bournemouth."
Pinto believes Bournemouth have acquired a player whose experience goes considerably beyond his age.
"António is a player we have admired for a long time and we're delighted to welcome him to AFC Bournemouth," he said.
Tiago Pinto - Has known Antonia Silva from a young age
"Despite being only 22, he has already built an outstanding level of experience at one of Europe's biggest clubs, playing consistently in domestic, European and international competitions".
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"He is ambitious, has a proven winning mentality and knows what it takes to compete for trophies."
That winning mentality is something Silva believes has been ingrained in him from his formative years at Benfica.
"I grew up in Benfica, and Benfica's mentality is always to win," he told AFCBTV. "I want to bring that into the squad at Bournemouth because that's my mentality - winning."
Silva outlines what Cherries supporters can expect
The Portugal international describes himself as a composed but aggressive centre-back who is comfortable helping his team build possession from defence.
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"I'm a very calm centre-back. I like to play from behind," he explained. "I'm also very good in duels, aggressive, and I like to play offensive football."
That profile could make Silva particularly well suited to the demands of Marco Rose , with the pair already holding conversations about how the defender could operate within the new Bournemouth head coach's system.
AFC Bournemouth Fans at Dean Court
"I spoke to him twice, so I know him very well," Silva said. "I know what he wants from a centre-back and I think I fit his style of play. I can't wait to train with him and to play under him."
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Silva has also shared an international dressing room with some of Portugal's biggest names, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias - therefore possess the experience that will be necessary for Cherries' Europa League campaign .
Having been exposed to that calibre of player at a relatively young age, Silva says he has tried to absorb as much as possible.
"I want to take all the best things from the best players," he said. "I've played with a lot of good players and I want to take everything from them and grow. It's what every football player wants - to work with the best players."
His arrival provides Rose with another major option in central defence ahead of the 2026/27 campaign and gives Silva the opportunity to continue his development in English football.
AFC Bournemouth's Performance Centre
Praise for the Performance Centre
After touring Bournemouth's facilities, he believes the club has everything required to help him perform.
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"The facilities are new, the pitches are good and we have everything to perform," he said.
And his first promise to Cherries supporters was a straightforward one.
"I will give everything for them," Silva said. "I can't wait to play for them and for this city."
