Man City midfielder set to leave the club in major transfer move | OneFootball

Bernardo Silva Edging Towards Manchester City Exit

Bernardo Silva has long been one of Manchester City’s most important figures, yet his next step now appears set in stone. According to GiveMeSport, the Portuguese midfielder has “already made his mind up” over his future and is expected to leave the Etihad at the end of the season. After seven years in Manchester, he is ready to turn the page.

Saudi Millions or Lisbon Homecoming?

Silva, currently on £375,000 per week, has been a long-term target for Saudi clubs. Talks first began in 2023 when he was offered an extraordinary £500,000-a-week contract. “He was offered a deal worth around £500,000-a-week” and although nothing was signed, GiveMeSport claim that “he is still a leading target”. Al Ahli and Al Qadsiah are circling, with both sides making enquiries.

Yet the Middle East is not his only route. A romantic return to boyhood club Benfica is firmly in play. “It’s understood the player would be open to that possibility too,” with the Lisbon club now managed by Jose Mourinho. His future is not entirely certain either, as Mourinho holds a one-year break clause. It adds another twist to what is becoming one of the transfer sagas of next summer.

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Portugal National Team Domino Effect

An intriguing subplot rests with the Portugal national team. Sources believe Roberto Martinez could step down after the 2026 World Cup. Mourinho is widely believed to be the favourite if that vacancy opens up. Benfica could be both a footballing and political gateway for Silva should Mourinho depart for international duty.

End of An Era at City

Manchester City have managed the departures of senior figures before, but losing Silva would carry emotional weight. Since his £60m move from Monaco in 2017, he has been indispensable, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and a Champions League.

City will already be drawing up succession plans. Whether it is Phil Foden stepping permanently inside or another marquee signing, the post-Silva era is approaching.

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From a Manchester City perspective, this news lands with mixed emotion. Supporters have been preparing themselves for years, as Silva has flirted with Barcelona, PSG and now Saudi Arabia. His desire to move closer to home has been well documented. Many City fans would respect a Benfica return far more than a money-driven shift to Al Ahli or Al Qadsiah. “If he goes back to Lisbon we clap him off, if he goes for Saudi cash it leaves a sour taste,” would be a fair summary of fan mood.

There is also a tactical concern. Silva has been Guardiola’s fix-all solution, deployed as a winger, central midfielder and even auxiliary fullback. No other player in the squad offers that elasticity. City may have the finances to replace his output, but replacing his intelligence is harder. If he leaves alongside Kevin De Bruyne in future seasons, the leadership spine weakens significantly.

For all his success, Silva has never sought the spotlight. He departs, whenever he does, as one of the understated greats of the Guardiola era. City fans will hope his final act brings yet another trophy parade.