Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva will part ways with the club at the conclusion of the current season, assistant manager Pep Lijnders confirmed following City’s 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Liverpool. The 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder, who has been integral to City’s success over the past nine years, is set to depart as a free agent when his contract expires.
“Every good story comes to an end,” Lijnders told reporters. “I hope he enjoys the last months—there are only six weeks left—and has a good farewell. He deserves all that attention.”
Silva, who joined City from AS Monaco in 2017 for a reported £43.5 million (US$57.35 million), has made 450 appearances and played a key role in the club’s six Premier League titles and Champions League triumph under Pep Guardiola. Known for his tactical versatility and relentless work rate, Silva has been described by Guardiola—who was absent from the touchline due to suspension—as “irreplaceable.”
With the League Cup already secured this season, Manchester City are still chasing a domestic treble as the 2025-26 campaign enters its final weeks. The club currently trails Premier League leaders Arsenal by nine points but holds a game in hand with eight matches remaining.
Silva’s forthcoming departure marks the end of an era for City, with the midfielder set to leave behind a legacy of excellence and silverware at the Etihad Stadium.
