Silva has long been linked with a move away from City but remains a key player under Pep Guardiola. With his deal expiring at the end of the season, though, it seems the anticipated transfer is set to go through next summer. After being named the captain following the departure of Kevin De Bruyne, Silva is focused on putting the club “back where it belongs” before revealing his decision over his future.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Silva said: “I know exactly what I’m going to do but it’s not the time to talk about it. It’s time to focus on City to try to do my best to put the club back where it belongs. In regard to my contract, I’m really focused on doing a proper season with Man City and being as well as possible to perform and to bring back the team and the club to the level where it deserves to be in the world.”
Silva is now the senior-most player in the City squad in terms of games played for the club, followed by John Stones and Phil Foden. The 2023 Champions League winners have officially kick-started a new era at the club, following the exits of icons like Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson, Kyle Walker, and Ilkay Gundogan. It is expected that he will not put pen to paper on a new deal next summer as the Cityzens continue to invest in youth.
“Yes, I can confirm that a contract is waiting for Bernardo Silva. And I really want to bring him in in January,” said Benfica presidential candidate Joao Noronha Lopes earlier this month. Silva began his career at Benfica, whom he joined as an eight-year-old in 2002, and could mark an emotional return to the club 11 years after leaving. On the other hand, Serie A giants Juventus have also been reported to hold interest in acquiring the 31-year-old on a free transfer next summer.
