Bernardo Silva bids farewell to Manchester City, vows lifelong support despite Benfica roots | OneFootball

Bernardo Silva has left Manchester City after nine seasons and 20 trophies, saying he will support the club for the rest of his life despite being a Benfica fan. The Portugal international said goodbye following a period of major collective and individual success.

According to Glorioso 1904, Pep Guardiola offered lavish praise, portraying Silva as a bona fide club legend.

Silva said he has forged a deep emotional bond with City and intends to remain connected to the club forever, even with his Benfica roots. He stressed that his feelings for the English champions are very strong.

The 31-year-old added that this felt the right moment to end his time in England, chiefly to be closer to family and embrace a new challenge. He noted it has been 12 years since he left home.

Already weighing options for his next club, he highlighted the influence of former team-mates Danilo, Gabriel Jesus, Riyad Mahrez, David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne. He said Guardiola inspired him, recalling doubts over his size at Benfica and how watching that Barcelona side convinced him he could make it.

This season he played 52 games for City, 37 in the Premier League, eight in the Champions League, three in the League Cup and four in the FA Cup. Across 3,795 minutes he registered three goals and five assists, and is valued at 27 million euros.

Source: Glorioso 1904