Lijnders Suggests Bernardo Silva's Manchester City Exit Is Imminent

Bernardo Silva Set to Bid Farewell to Manchester City This Summer

Manchester City assistant manager Pep Lijnders has strongly suggested that midfielder Bernardo Silva's distinguished nine-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium is drawing to a close, remarking that "every good story comes to an end."

The Portuguese international, who turns 31 this season, is in the final months of his contract with no extension agreed. Speculation surrounding his next destination continues to grow, with Spanish champions Barcelona, Italian giants Juventus, and several American clubs all reportedly monitoring his situation.

Lijnders Speaks Out Following FA Cup Victory

Lijnders stepped into the media spotlight after City's commanding 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Liverpool on Saturday — a match in which head coach Pep Guardiola was absent from the touchline due to a suspension. During his post-match address, Lijnders took the opportunity to reflect on what Silva means to the club.

"You never replace a player with the same kind of player because they simply don't exist," Lijnders said. "Bernardo Silva is unique. The way he controls games, the way he moves, receives the ball, leads the team, and identifies solutions — all of those qualities are exceptional."

Lijnders also acknowledged just how significant Silva's absence would be felt throughout a full campaign. "When he doesn't play, even in a single match, you can see how much he is missed — and that's just one game. Imagine an entire season," he added.

"But every good story comes to an end, and I hope he enjoys these final weeks and receives the farewell he truly deserves."

A Legacy Carved in Silverware

Silva joined City from Monaco back in 2017 and has since become one of the most decorated players in the club's history. Saturday's FA Cup clash marked his 450th appearance in a City shirt, while the club's recent Carabao Cup triumph added an 18th major honour to his impressive medal haul.

Guardiola, who has long been one of Silva's greatest admirers, elevated him to the captaincy following Kevin de Bruyne's departure at the end of last season. Notably, Silva holds the distinction of being the most selected player across Guardiola's entire managerial career.

City Eye Replacements Through Transfer Market and Academy

As the club begins planning for life without their captain, Manchester City have been linked with a summer move for Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. However, Lijnders was keen to emphasise that the club will not simply seek a like-for-like replacement.

"You never search for a direct replacement," he explained. "You look for what the team needs to grow and someone who can slot into the starting eleven."

Lijnders also highlighted the role City's celebrated academy could play in filling the void. "We hope our young players can make that step in the midfield positions. If you watch our academy boys, they have real potential to grow into those roles," he said.

Building Around a Stable Core

Despite the inevitable transition ahead, Lijnders stressed that retaining the club's experienced players remains the priority. "The most important thing is that the senior players who have been here a long time continue to stay — and around that foundation, you can make your moves," he concluded.