Bernardo Silva to leave Manchester City on a free transfer
Manchester City have officially announced that Bernardo Silva will depart the Etihad on a free transfer when the current campaign concludes, reports BritPanorama.
The Portuguese midfielder’s nine-year spell with the club will end following the Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on Sunday, May 24. Both the club and player released statements on Thursday afternoon confirming the long-anticipated exit.
Silva, who joined from Monaco in 2017, has established himself as one of the most decorated figures in City’s history. The 31-year-old chose to see out his contract rather than seek a move, cementing his status among the club’s greatest servants. Moreover, Pep Guardiola departed from his usual coaching approach this season by handing Silva the captain’s armband, viewing the Portugal international as the ideal figure to restore standards within the squad.
That mission proved successful, with Silva hoisting silverware as skipper last month after City defeated Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. As the season comes to a close, Silva’s upcoming match against Arsenal will see him draw level with Mike Summerbee in eighth place on City’s all-time appearances list. His recent outings, including one at Stamford Bridge, have also seen him surpass Luis Boa Morte’s tally, making him the Portuguese footballer with the most appearances in Premier League history.
Silva’s departure had been anticipated for the past twelve months before Thursday’s official confirmation. Few players have represented the club on as many occasions, and he is set to conclude his Etihad career among an elite group of City legends. As the campaign wraps up, Southampton await in the FA Cup semi-final, while City control their destiny in the title race heading into Sunday’s crucial clash with the Gunners. Victory in either competition would make Silva the most successful player in the club’s history.
In his farewell message, Silva reflected on his journey from a young boy with dreams to one of City’s most celebrated players. “What we won and achieved together is a legacy that will forever be cherished in my heart,” he said. His gratitude extended to the supporters for their unwavering backing throughout his tenure, stating, “I arrived as a Man City player, I leave as one more of you, a Man City supporter for life.” As he prepares for this chapter to close, one cannot help but wonder how his influence on and off the pitch will be remembered by both fans and teammates alike.
