Manchester, ENGLAND — Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva has officially confirmed he will depart the club on a free transfer at the end of the season, marking a major “contract disaster” for the English champions as they lose their most decorated leader for nothing.
Okay News reports that the 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder made the long-anticipated announcement on Thursday afternoon, April 16, 2026. Silva, who joined the club from Monaco in 2017, has been a cornerstone of the most successful era in City’s history. Over his nine-year tenure, he made over 450 appearances and secured 19 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, the 2023 Champions League, and the historic Treble.
In a heartfelt statement, Silva expressed his deep connection to the club and its fanbase. “I arrived as a Man City player, I leave as one more of you, a Man City supporter for life. Love you all,” he wrote. Despite persistent interest from top European clubs over the last three summers, Silva chose to see out his contract in Manchester, ensuring he leaves as a free agent this June.
Pep Guardiola, who famously views Silva as his most “intelligent” player, broke from his usual coaching hierarchy this season by handing the midfielder the captain’s armband. The move paid off quickly, as Silva captained the side to a 2-0 victory over Arsenal at Wembley Stadium, London, England to lift the Carabao Cup last month.
The “midfield maestro” still has the opportunity to add to his legendary trophy cabinet before his final game against Aston Villa on May 24. Manchester City are currently in a neck-and-neck title race and face Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final on April 25. Should City secure another trophy, Silva will depart as the most successful player to ever wear the sky-blue shirt.
