Bernardo Silva has fuelled fresh uncertainty over his long-term future at Manchester City after admitting he is entering the final year of his contract without clarity on what comes next. Speaking to DAZN Portugal, the 31-year-old midfielder acknowledged that his current deal expires in June 2026 — meaning that from 1 January, he is legally permitted to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside England.
Noticias Ao Minuto report that several European sides, particularly in Serie A, are monitoring the situation closely. Some Italian clubs are even exploring whether Silva could follow the same free-transfer path Kevin De Bruyne took to Napoli this summer — a move that sent shockwaves across Europe. However, Silva insisted no discussions have taken place with Manchester City about an extension.
“This is my last year of contract. We’ll see what happens,” he said, leaving the door firmly open to all possibilities.
For now, though, his priority remains unchanged: helping Manchester City return to the top of the Premier League after an underwhelming campaign last year.
Silva Reflects on His Leadership Role at City
Bernardo admitted that, after more than seven years at the Etihad, he now sees himself as one of the senior figures responsible for guiding City’s next generation.
“But regardless, it’s always an honour. And after so many years, and being one of the oldest players, the time has come to pass on all this experience and information to help the younger players.”
He continued with a reminder of City’s internal expectations:
“At this club, the objective is always simple. If players want to be part of this club, they have to be prepared to fight for titles.”
Having been part of 16 trophies at City — including six Premier League titles, four League Cups and the Champions League — Silva’s voice carries weight. His message to the squad was firm: City demand hunger, and those not prepared for that standard will be replaced.
Why Silva’s Future Matters to Manchester City
Although some supporters feared a transfer dispute, insiders insist Silva’s situation is not driven by tension. Instead, it reflects the natural crossroads a long-serving player faces as he weighs legacy, personal goals and the next phase of his career.
Having covered City closely over the years, this feels like a familiar theme. Players who remain under Guardiola for longer than five seasons tend to reassess their roles, partly due to the physical toll of the system. In our view, Silva’s openness is not a signal of departure but a recognition that his next deal — whether at City or elsewhere — will likely be the last major contract of his career.
Although some may claim Silva’s reduced assist numbers signal decline, it's worth noting that his influence remains primarily structural: ball progression, tempo control and big-moment management. These qualities often go underappreciated in raw statistics.
From my experience analysing City’s tactical patterns, Silva’s versatility — operating as a No.8, inverted winger, or auxiliary holding midfielder — is still crucial to the squad’s balance. Losing him would significantly alter Guardiola’s rotation options.
Bernardo Silva stats in 2025/26 (so far)
| Stat (2025/26) | Bernardo Silva |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 17 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Big Chances Created | 4 |
| Accurate Passes per Game | 35.2 (90%) |
| Balls Recovered per Game | 3.1 |
source: Sofascore data – 1 December 2025
Silva’s numbers highlight his all-round contribution rather than final-third explosiveness. His passing accuracy remains elite at 90%, and his ball recoveries demonstrate the defensive output Guardiola values so highly.
Wage and Contract Context
Bernardo Silva earns £300,000 per week, equating to £15.6 million annually under the three-year contract extension he signed in August 2023. With no renewal talks currently active, City will soon need clarity on whether he remains part of their long-term structure.
Given his seniority and influence, both parties will likely approach discussions carefully. For Silva, this is the moment to decide between extending his City legacy or exploring a final challenge elsewhere in Europe.
City’s Competitive Focus Remains Sharp
Despite the contract uncertainty, Silva stressed that City’s collective aim remains unchanged: reclaiming dominance.
“At Manchester City, you have to fight for titles. And if we’re not prepared, the club will again make the decisions it has to make.”
City travel to Fulham tomorrow before hosting Sunderland on 6 December, with Guardiola keen to build momentum during a demanding schedule.
Key Insights
- Silva confirms he is in the final year of his Manchester City contract.
- From 1 January, he is free to negotiate with clubs outside England.
- No extension talks have taken place so far.
- Serie A clubs are exploring a move similar to De Bruyne’s Napoli switch.
- Silva continues to serve as a senior leader in Guardiola’s dressing room.
What’s Next?
Silva’s future likely won’t be resolved until late spring, but interest will grow the closer he gets to contract expiry. Whether he stays or goes, City’s next two months will be shaped by his leadership on and off the pitch.
👉 Should Manchester City push to renew Bernardo’s contract — or is it the right time to plan for a future without him?
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