Paulo Bernardo has set his sights firmly on a historic milestone as Celtic prepare for Saturday’s Scottish Cup Final against Aberdeen. Victory at Hampden would not only clinch the trophy but also secure a domestic treble for Brendan Rodgers’ side—Bernardo’s first since joining the club permanently last summer.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who arrived from Benfica, described the chance to win all three major trophies in one season as “amazing” and says he’s determined to play his part.
Bernardo has become an important part of Celtic’s midfield, despite not always starting. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm at times this season, but when called upon, he’s played a major role in big games.
With Reo Hatate set to miss the final, Bernardo looks likely to start and will be eager to make the most of the opportunity against Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen side.
He said: (Celtic FC), “It will be my first treble. I never experienced that, so I think it will be amazing and I want to achieve that.
“I’m still young and I can achieve that here at this big club. I’m very happy for that and I will do my best to achieve that too.
“I think we don’t need to talk because Celtic always want to win every title that they work on. We are always here to win every game and with that we can win titles.
“Everyone wants to win titles and Celtic is a really big club that can do that.”
Bernardo’s likely inclusion gives Celtic something different in midfield. He’s calm on the ball and likes to drive forward, which could help break down a tough Aberdeen team. With Thelin’s side expected to sit deep and stay tight, Bernardo’s passing and movement could be important.
He knows how big this game is and wants to make a difference. He’s shown his attacking threat in big moments over the last 18 months, and now he has the chance to do it again. Winning a treble would be a huge moment for him.
Brendan Rodgers will likely trust Bernardo to start. With the treble on the line and a big crowd at Hampden watching, this is the kind of game where players make a name for themselves—just like Bernardo did last year against Rangers off the bench.
