“City Fan for Life” – Club Captain Bernardo Silva Delivers Emotional Farewell After 9 Historic Years
Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva has confirmed he will bring the curtain down on his legendary nine-year stay at the Etihad Stadium this summer, leaving as a self-proclaimed "Man City supporter for life."
The 31-year-old Portuguese international departs Manchester as one of the most decorated players in the club's history, walking away with an astonishing 20 major trophies and having played more games than anyone else during this golden era.
In his final studio interview with the club, an emotional Bernardo opened up about his deep connection to the Cityzens.
"It’s difficult because nine years is a very long time. I would say that I leave as a Man City supporter," Bernardo shared. "When I arrived from Portugal, I was a fan of Benfica, but now I can say for sure that my feelings toward this Club are very, very strong. I will be supporting Man City for the rest of my life."
Why Bernardo is Leaving the EtihadSince arriving from Monaco in the summer of 2017, the midfield maestro has won the hearts of the City faithful. However, he acknowledged that it is the right moment to step aside and look for a new chapter.
. Passing the Torch: Bernardo noted that it is time for City's "young guys to have their moment."
. Family Reasons: After nearly a decade in England, he expressed a strong desire to move closer to his family.
. A New Challenge: Despite his love for the club, the midfielder feels he needs one final fresh footballing challenge in his career.
The Ultimate Pep Guardiola InspoSmall in stature but unmatched in work ethic and technical genius, Bernardo has been a focal point for manager Pep Guardiola. In fact, Guardiola has selected Bernardo more times than any other player in his entire managerial career. Reflecting on his relationship with the boss, Bernardo revealed that Pep’s legendary Barcelona team originally saved his career before they even met:
"Way before I joined City, Pep was always an inspiration. I was at Benfica in my academy years where I didn’t play because they thought I wasn’t big enough or strong enough.
I looked at Pep's Barcelona with the small guys—Xavi, Iniesta, Messi, Pedro—and thought, 'These guys are also not big or strong. If they can do it, maybe one day I can do it.' To join this club and spend nine years with him is fantastic."
Manchester City Victory Parade Details
To celebrate the incredible achievements of the men’s, women’s, and academy teams during the 2025/2026 season—and to give Bernardo and fellow departing legend John Stones the ultimate send-off—an open-top bus parade has been officially locked in.
. Date: Monday, 25 May. Parade Show Starts: 16:00 (UK). The After Party (Co-op Live): Player arrival at 18:30 (UK)
Best regards,Hamza Saheed
