Bernardo Silva Set to Leave Manchester City: Pep Lenders Confirms

Bernardo Silva will leave Manchester City in the summer of 2026 following the expiration of his contract in June. The departure was confirmed by the club’s assistant manager, Pep Lijnders, who stated that the Portuguese midfielder will not renew his deal at the Etihad Stadium.

The announcement came during media duties on April 5, 2026, following Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Liverpool. Lijnders stepped in to handle press responsibilities because manager Pep Guardiola was serving a touchline ban during the match.

The 31-year-old Silva, who currently serves as the club captain, is entering the final six weeks of his tenure with the English Premier League side. Lijnders expressed hope that the midfielder would receive a fitting farewell as his time with the club concludes.

A Legacy of Success at Manchester City

Silva joined Manchester City from Monaco in July 2017. Over the course of nine seasons, he became a central figure in the club’s period of generational success. He has made 450 first-team appearances across all competitions, recording 76 goals and 77 assists.

During his stay, Silva contributed to a trophy haul that includes:

• Six Premier League titles
• Two FA Cups
• Five League Cups
• One UEFA Champions League title
• Two FIFA Club World Cups

Guardiola appointed Silva as captain for the current season following the exits of Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker. His leadership and versatility have been cited as key components of the team’s tactical flexibility.

Analysis of a Unique Player

Pep Lijnders praised Silva’s technical contributions and his ability to read the game, noting that the midfielder possesses qualities that are nearly impossible to find in other players.

You never replace a player with the same kind of player because they don’t exist. Bernardo Silva is unique. The way he controls games, the way he moves, the way he receives, the way he leads, the way he sees the solutions. All these things.

Pep Lijnders

Lijnders further explained that the club will not look for a direct replacement of the same type, but will instead seek players who fit the evolving needs of the first XI. He indicated that the club hopes young players from the academy can make the necessary step into the midfield positions to fill the void left by Silva’s departure.

Potential Future Destinations

As Silva will leave as a free agent, several high-profile clubs have expressed interest in signing the midfielder. La Liga leaders Barcelona and Serie A side Juventus are both identified as potential destinations.

There is also the possibility of a return to Benfica, the Portuguese club where Silva began his professional career. While Silva has previously spoken of a wish to end his career at Benfica, such a move would likely require him to accept a significant pay cut to return to his home country.

Alternatively, the Saudi Pro League remains an option. A move to Saudi Arabia would offer Silva a substantial salary, contrasting with the financial requirements of a return to Portugal.

Despite reaching the age of 31, Silva remains highly regarded for his relentless work rate and technical ability. He has already made 43 appearances across all competitions in the current season, with 30 of those coming in the Premier League.