Bernardo Silva to Depart Manchester City After Nine-Year Trophy-Laden Era

By Eppe Franklyne

The curtain is set to fall on one of the most decorated careers in Manchester City’s modern history. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders confirmed on Sunday that club captain Bernardo Silva will leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the 2025-26 season. The 31-year-old Portugal international, a cornerstone of the club’s success since 2017, will depart as a free agent when his contract expires this summer.

Speaking to reporters following City’s dominant 4-0 FA Cup quarterfinal victory over Liverpool on Saturday, Lijnders—standing in for a suspended Pep Guardiola—paid a glowing tribute to the midfielder. “Every good story comes to an end,” Lijnders remarked. “I hope he enjoys the last months—there are only six weeks left—and has a good farewell. He deserves all that attention.” Guardiola, who has famously labeled Silva as “irreplaceable,” has previously credited the Portuguese star’s tactical intelligence and tireless work rate as fundamental to City’s identity.

Silva joined Manchester City from AS Monaco for £43.5 million and has since amassed 450 appearances, winning six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, and numerous domestic cups. His departure marks the end of a nine-year spell defined by consistency and versatility. While rumors link him with a return to Benfica or potential moves to Juventus and the MLS, Silva remains focused on finishing his final campaign on a high.

Despite trailing Premier League leaders Arsenal by nine points, Manchester City remains in contention for a domestic treble after securing the League Cup in March. With a game in hand and eight matches remaining in the league, plus an FA Cup semifinal clash against Southampton on the horizon, Silva has a final opportunity to add to his staggering trophy haul before his emotional exit.

As the “irreplaceable” captain prepares for his final six weeks in Manchester, do you think his departure signals the beginning of a major rebuild for Pep Guardiola’s squad?

Follow us for more