7M - Bernardo Silva Manchester City Exit Confirmed As Lijnders Praises Portuguese Star

Manchester City assistant manager Pep Lijnders has effectively confirmed that Bernardo Silva will depart the club when his contract expires this summer. The 31-year-old midfielder, who joined from Monaco in 2017, has spent nine successful seasons at the Etihad Stadium.

During his tenure, Silva has made 450 appearances and scored 76 goals, helping City secure 18 major trophies including the Champions League and six Premier League titles. Last summer, Pep Guardiola appointed him club captain following Kevin De Bruyne's exit.

Speaking after City's FA Cup victory over Liverpool, Lijnders reflected on Silva's imminent departure. "Bernardo Silva is unique," he said. "The way he controls games, moves, receives, leads, and sees solutions. It will be hard because when he is not playing, you see how he is missed."

Lijnders added that every good story comes to an end and expressed hope that Silva enjoys his final weeks with the club. Rather than seeking a like-for-like replacement, the assistant manager indicated City may look inward, promoting academy talents such as Nico O'Reilly, who has impressed this season.

The club has also been linked with Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as a potential long-term option. Meanwhile, Silva's future has attracted interest from Juventus, boyhood club Benfica, and several Saudi Pro League sides.

As City navigate the final stretch of the season, attention turns to how the squad adapts to life without one of its most influential figures. For Silva, a farewell campaign awaits; for City, a transition period begins.