Manchester City's Matheus Nunes hails "incredible" leader Bernardo Silva as Juventus clash looms

Manchester City have already qualified from Group G after winning their opening two matches in the FIFA Club World Cup, but that doesn't necessarily mean that Pep will field a weakened side ahead of the showdown with Juventus.

Currently tied with Juventus on six points, City know that a win on Thursday will mean they face the second-placed team in Group H in the last 16. That would likely mean meeting either Salzburg or Al Hilal in the next round.

A loss against Juventus would mean finishing second in Group G, which would likely mean facing Spanish giants Real Madrid in Orlando in the knockout stages.

If Pep fields a full-strength side, expect new captain Bernardo Silva to play a significant role. And that, according to the versatile Matheus Nunes, would give his side a real leadership boost.

"He leads by example. He's not vocalising all the time, but when he speaks, everyone hears," he told DAZN.

Nunes has played alongside Silva for both club and country, providing him with valuable insight into what his countryman brings to the table as the new Manchester City captain.

Silva, of course, was hand-picked by Pep, who broke protocol by deciding to make the appointment himself, rather than allowing the team to elect a leader.

The choice received the full backing of Nunes.

"He's an incredible character and person and an amazing football player as well. We're very glad that he's our captain this year."

As City prepare to take on Juventus, Nunes also shared his feelings on what he expects from the challenge that lies ahead.

"A very tough game for sure. They are a very aggressive team. Probably one of the most aggressive teams in this competition.

"They have a lot of quality players, but we're gonna try and win for sure."

If Silva inspires the way Nunes describes, expect City to deliver.

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