Bernardo Silva’s time at Manchester City appears to be drawing to a close. The Portuguese midfielder has already informed the club of his decision to leave at the end of the season, yet the potential arrival of Antoine Semenyo could accelerate his departure — possibly as early as the January transfer window.
IlBianconero report that the 31-year-old, who will turn 32 on 10 August, looks set to bring his Etihad chapter to an end in 2026, though the timing remains uncertain. Whether he leaves in the summer, before the next World Cup, or in the coming weeks remains to be seen. What is clear is that this campaign has felt like a slow fade rather than a grand finale.
Despite clocking over 1,600 minutes across the Premier League, Champions League, and League Cup, his contributions have dipped. With just two assists — against Manchester United and Liverpool — and a single goal in the Champions League against Villarreal, his once-consistent end product has noticeably declined. For a player who has built his reputation on creativity and consistency, the numbers look almost unfamiliar.
Since joining City from Monaco in 2017, Silva has amassed 73 goals and 75 assists in 431 appearances — a stellar return for a player who has been a tactical cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s side. Yet this season, his influence seems to have diminished.
A Strained Relationship
Guardiola’s recent public remarks have done little to dispel rumours of friction. Following City’s 3–1 win over West Ham on 20 December, the manager said, “Bernie is my weakness — for me, he’s the best, but he has to play better. I’m not happy with him. He knows what I want.”
After more than eight years together, it may well be a question of motivation, or perhaps competition — especially with Rayan Cherki’s emergence and the expected arrival of Semenyo from Bournemouth. Either way, Silva seems ready for a new challenge, a new environment where he can once again be the main figure. Guardiola himself has often acknowledged his midfielder’s class: “There are players born to perform on the biggest stages — and Bernie is one of them. He can play anywhere: at the Bernabéu, Camp Nou, Milan, or Anfield.”
Future Destinations
As for his future, few expect Silva to remain in England. A move to Saudi Arabia could tempt him, especially given the substantial salary on offer — likely an increase on his current £7 million net annual wage. However, a European move cannot be ruled out.
Barcelona, long-time admirers who tried to sign him in 2022, might revive their interest now that he could be available on a free transfer. A return to Benfica, the club of his heart, feels less likely for now, though emotionally appealing.
In Italy, both Juventus and Milan are monitoring the situation, seeing Silva as a possible coup if conditions align. Any potential Serie A move would require an operation “in the Modric mould”: a significant wage package paired with a convincing sporting project.
