Manchester: Pep Lijnders has hinted that Bernardo Silva could be nearing the end of his illustrious nine-year spell with Manchester City, admitting that “every good story comes to an end” as the midfielder’s contract approaches expiry this summer.
The 31-year-old Portuguese international, whose deal runs out at the end of the season, is yet to commit to an extension. Reports have linked him with potential moves to FC Barcelona, Juventus, and clubs in the United States.
Speaking after City’s dominant 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final win over Liverpool FC — a match in which manager Pep Guardiola was serving a touchline ban — Lijnders praised Silva’s unique influence on the team.
“You never replace a player with the same kind of player because they don’t exist,” Lijnders said. “Bernardo Silva is unique — the way he controls games, moves, receives, leads, and finds solutions. When he’s not playing, you see how much he’s missed. Imagine that over an entire season.”
Lijnders also suggested the club is preparing for a possible farewell. “Every good story comes to an end. I hope he enjoys the last months — there are only six weeks — and has a good farewell. He deserves all that attention.”
Silva, who joined City from Monaco in 2017, marked his 450th appearance in the quarter-final victory. He has lifted 18 trophies with the club, cementing his status as one of Guardiola’s most trusted players. He was named captain following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure last season and has remained central to City’s midfield control.
While City have been linked with potential midfield reinforcements, Lijnders stressed the club’s philosophy of evolution rather than direct replacement. He highlighted the importance of academy graduates stepping up alongside experienced players as City prepare for a potential post-Silva transition.
If Silva departs, it would mark the end of an era at the Etihad — closing a chapter defined by creativity, consistency, and a trophy-laden partnership that helped shape one of the most successful periods in Manchester City’s history.
Source : BBC Sports
Discussion about this post