End of an Era: Manchester City Assistant Confirms Bernardo Silva’s Imminent Exit
Manchester City assistant coach Pepijn Lijnders has signaled the end of a defining era at the Etihad Stadium, confirming that Bernardo Silva is set to leave the club this summer. The news comes on the heels of City’s dominant 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarterfinals on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
Speaking to the media following the match, Lijnders was candid about the Portuguese midfielder’s looming departure, stating, “Every good story comes to an end.” The Dutch coach expressed his hope that Silva enjoys his final six weeks with the squad and receives a farewell befitting his contributions. “He deserves all that attention as well,” Lijnders added.
The 31-year-old veteran is currently in the final months of a contract that expires in June. With no expectation of a renewal, Bernardo Silva is expected to depart on a free transfer, with Barcelona understood to be his preferred destination for the next season. Other potential moves to Saudi Arabia and his boyhood club, Benfica, have also been linked to the player.
Lijnders was unstinting in his praise for the outgoing captain, emphasizing that the club will not seek a direct replacement in the summer window because a player of Silva’s caliber is irreplaceable. Lijnders confirmed the captain’s exit while describing Silva as “unique” in his ability to control games, lead the group, and uncover solutions on the pitch.
“You never replace a player with the same kind of player because they don’t exist,” Lijnders explained. “You search for what is needed to grow with the team and somebody who can fit in the first XI.”
Silva’s journey with Manchester City began in 2017 when he joined from AS Monaco for £43 million. Over the course of nearly a decade, he became a cornerstone of the success achieved under head coach Pep Guardiola. As the club looks toward the future, Lijnders indicated that City will rely on its academy and current young players to step up in the midfield positions.
The departure of the major City star comes during a highly successful campaign; the club has already lifted the Carabao Cup and now advances to the FA Cup semifinals. While City has been linked with potential midfield targets including Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson, the focus remains on finishing the season strongly.
The transfer-free exit of the club icon marks the conclusion of one of the most influential individual spells in the club’s recent history. According to the announcement regarding captain Silva, the club is now preparing for life after the Portuguese international as they head into the final stretch of the 2025-26 season.
