Benfica presidential hopeful João Noronha Lopes has reignited talk of a sensational homecoming for Bernardo Silva, insisting the Manchester City midfielder “wants to come” back to his boyhood club.
Speaking to O Jogo, Noronha Lopes reaffirmed his determination to bring the Portugal international back to the Estádio da Luz if he wins next month’s election — and believes the timing is finally right.
João Noronha Lopes on Bernardo Silva’s future
“He is a great player, one of Benfica’s biggest talents, and he wants to come. I am fully convinced he will return, and I will do everything possible to make it happen.” — João Noronha Lopes, speaking to O Jogo
The presidential candidate highlighted that Silva’s Manchester City contract allows him to begin talks with other clubs in January — a technical detail he believes could play into Benfica’s hands.
“He has a contract with Manchester City and will be free to sign for another club in January,” Noronha Lopes added. “We want him to be one of the main pillars of our sporting project.”
Benfica’s dream project: Bernardo Silva and José Mourinho
Noronha Lopes has made Silva’s potential return a central promise of his campaign, alongside the confirmation that José Mourinho will continue as Benfica’s head coach under his leadership.
“The combination of José Mourinho and Bernardo Silva represents ambition, identity and the return of Benfica’s soul,” he told O Jogo, framing their partnership as symbolic of his plan to restore the club’s glory.
The 31-year-old midfielder’s deep emotional bond with Benfica is well known. Silva came through the club’s academy and has repeatedly spoken about his desire to play for the Eagles again before retiring.
Bernardo Silva’s hints about his Manchester City future
Earlier this month, Silva himself fuelled speculation over his next move. Speaking ahead of captaining Manchester City in their Champions League clash with Monaco, the Portugal star said he already knows his next steps once his contract expires.
“I know exactly what I’m going to do, but it’s not the time to focus on it,” Silva said, stressing that his focus remains on delivering success for City this season. — Bernardo Silva, speaking ahead of City vs Monaco
His current deal runs until June 2026, but with Noronha Lopes insisting the player “wants to come,” speculation is mounting that discussions could open sooner rather than later.
Analyst Verdict — John William, FootballPlace
In my view, João Noronha Lopes knows exactly how to energise Benfica’s fanbase. Linking his campaign with two of Portugal’s most iconic figures — Bernardo Silva and José Mourinho — is pure political genius.
We believe that while Silva’s immediate focus remains on Manchester City, there’s genuine emotional pull behind the idea of returning home. The question will be timing — whether it’s a romantic homecoming or a strategic move to wind down his career.
Key Insights
- João Noronha Lopes insists Bernardo Silva “wants to come” back to Benfica.
- Candidate confident he can bring the Manchester City star home if elected.
- Silva can legally begin talks with clubs in January due to contract clause.
- Mourinho set to remain Benfica coach under Noronha Lopes’ presidency.
- Silva recently said he “knows exactly” what he will do after leaving City.
What’s Next for Bernardo Silva and Benfica
For now, Bernardo Silva remains focused on Manchester City’s Premier League and Champions League campaigns. Pep Guardiola continues to rely heavily on him as one of the squad’s senior leaders.
Benfica’s election, however, could reopen the emotional narrative of a homecoming. With Noronha Lopes building his campaign around ambition and identity, Silva’s potential return could define one of the most dramatic transfer sagas of 2026.
👉 Do you think Bernardo Silva will actually return to Benfica — or is this just election talk?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 14 Oct 2025 15:31
He's still young, why would he go to Benfica? At this age? I dont get it to be honest and still adds value to City innit?
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