- Bernardo Silva is set to leave Man City this summer
- Portuguese midfielder has explained his exit decision
- The captain spent nine successful years at the Etihad
Manchester City are preparing to say goodbye to one of the defining players of the Pep Guardiola era as Bernardo Silva’s nine-year stay at the Etihad Stadium nears its end.
The Portuguese midfielder has already confirmed that this will be his final season with the Sky Blues. Despite not being the loudest figure in the squad, Silva’s intelligence always stood out during games.
He continues to be one of the key players under Pep Guardiola to date. However, an expiring contract will mark the end of his time at the Etihad.
At 31, Silva isn’t looking for more minutes or a bigger role elsewhere. Likewise, he explains the reasoning behind his decision in an interview with Manchester City.
Bernardo Silva explains Man City exit decision
Speaking about why he is leaving Man City, Bernardo claimed it was for a mix of reasons. The Portuguese joined from AS Monaco in 2017.
Nine years later, the midfielder will be leaving the Etihad after winning six Premier League titles, three FA Cups and a Champions League, to name a few.
“A mix of things in terms of trophies and what I personally achieved. It’s never enough, but I feel we won a lot,” he told the official Manchester City website.
Silva added, “It’s time for these young guys to have their moment, while for me, it’s an opportunity to go a bit closer to my family.”
“It’s been quite a long time I’ve been apart, and I want to be a bit closer. I also want a new challenge. Even though I love the club and the nine years, I feel it’s the right moment to have a new challenge.”
Silva departure comes with a personal motive
After spending nine years away from home, the Portuguese international seems to be searching for something closer to home.
Silva grew up in Lisbon, coming through Benfica’s academy. He also has a daughter who’ll be turning three.
Furthermore, the midfielder’s wife is pregnant with their second child. Likewise, with a desire to be closer to his family and home, a move away from the Isles seems to have made the most sense for the captain.
Replacing Silva remains a complex task
Bernardo’s versatility makes him one of Guardiola’s favourites. However, City are still struggling to find a replacement for the Portuguese international.
Multiple names have been suggested, but the Citizens have yet to decide on a midfielder. Likewise, Guardiola is also expected to leave this summer.
Enzo Maresca remains the favourite to succeed Guardiola. However, with the Italian always employing a double pivot, Man City might move towards a less versatile midfielder to fill in for Bernardo.
