Bernardo Silva will be leaving Manchester City after 9 years at the club, Fabrizio Romano has officially confirmed. The Transfer Guru has mentioned that the Portuguese midfielder will leave Manchester City as a free agent this June, which has been confirmed by the club as well Romano has also mentioned that Silva is planning to choose his next club ahead of the World Cup.
The Portuguese star was one of the most underrated players in Guardiola's legendary side that dominated England for several years and even conquered Europe. He was one of those players whose impact can only be known if you watched the whole game, and was one of those brilliant individual stars who performed silently in excellence behind the spotlight. Let us now look back at Bernardo Silva's historic time with the Citizens
Bernardo Silva: One of the most important players in Pep Guardiola's legendary Manchester City era
Bernardo Silva’s impending departure from Manchester City marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the club’s modern history. Since arriving from AS Monaco in 2017, the Portuguese midfielder has grown into one of the most influential and consistent performers of the Pep Guardiola era, playing a key role in City’s domestic dominance and European triumphs.
Signed for a reported €50 million after impressing against City in the UEFA Champions League, Silva wasted little time establishing himself. During the 2017–18 season, he featured in 53 matches across all competitions, helping City secure a historic Premier League title with a record 100 points, along with the EFL Cup. His tireless work rate and technical brilliance quickly made him a trusted figure in Guardiola’s system.
Silva’s importance only grew in the following seasons. In 2018–19, he delivered one of his finest campaigns, registering 13 goals and 14 assists while stepping up in Kevin De Bruyne’s absence. His performances earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year and the club’s Player of the Season award, underlining his growing influence. Memorable moments, including a crucial goal in the Manchester Derby at Old Trafford, further cemented his reputation as a big-game player.
Despite occasional challenges, including a brief controversy during the 2019–20 season, Silva remained a central figure in City’s squad. By the 2021–22 season, he had evolved into one of the most versatile players in world football. Initially deployed on the wing, he seamlessly transitioned into central midfield, and even filled roles as a forward or deeper midfielder when required. His intelligence and adaptability made him indispensable, with Guardiola once describing him as “one of the best players in the world.”
Silva’s crowning moment came during the 2022–23 campaign. His brace against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final helped propel City into the final, where he assisted the decisive goal in a 1–0 win over Inter Milan. That victory secured the club’s first-ever Champions League title and completed a historic continental treble, firmly etching Silva’s name into City folklore.
In the years that followed, Silva continued to deliver decisive contributions, including key goals in major fixtures and leadership on and off the pitch. His appointment as club captain ahead of the 2025–26 season reflected his stature within the squad.
Now, with confirmation that he will leave when his contract expires in the summer of 2026, Silva departs as a true Manchester City legend. His legacy is defined not just by trophies, but by his consistency, versatility, and unwavering commitment, qualities that have left a lasting imprint on one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.
FAQs
When will Bernardo Silva leave Manchester City?
Bernardo Silva is set to leave Manchester City in the summer of 2026 as a free agent.
How long did Bernardo Silva play for Manchester City?
He spent nine seasons at Manchester City after joining in 2017.
What are Bernardo Silva’s biggest achievements at Manchester City?
He won multiple Premier League titles and played a key role in the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League-winning treble.
Why is Bernardo Silva considered a Manchester City legend?
Due to his consistency, versatility, big-game performances, and impact during the club’s most successful era
