Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva has admitted that he already knows “exactly” what he will do once his current contract expires, but says the time is not yet right to reveal his next move.
The 31-year-old’s deal runs out at the end of the season, though he was appointed captain by City manager Pep Guardiola earlier this summer, a responsibility he described as both a “big honor and a big responsibility.”
“I know exactly what I’m going to do but it’s not the time to focus on it,” Silva said on his post Man City plans.
“It’s to do my best, to put the club back to where it belongs. We’ve had a lot of captains who’ve left but it’s for the guys who have the most experience to pass it on to the young guys.”
The Portugal international has enjoyed immense success during his seven years at the Etihad, winning every major trophy available, including the Champions League as part of City’s historic 2023 treble and six Premier League titles.
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He took over the captaincy following Kevin de Bruyne’s departure in the summer, after the Belgian joined Napoli on a free transfer.
Guardiola has also been impressed by his new skipper, praising him for his consistency and professionalism, saying: “He cannot do better as captain.
“He is one of the best in training. He is an extraordinary player - so intelligent and smart. He can play in so many positions. We’re really happy to have him.”
Where could Silva go next?
Silva was heavily linked with a move away from Manchester last summer but ultimately chose to see out the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Bernardo 💬 It’s been a great honour for me [to be made captain] and I’m trying my best to get this team back to the level it deserves to be. pic.twitter.com/c9MmUO3KXe
— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 30, 2025
It’s been something of an open secret that a return to boyhood club Benfica would be his preferred destination, with the Portuguese giants long believed to be preparing a deal for their former academy star.
Benfica have recently reappointed former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who would naturally be thrilled to have a player like Silva in his ranks.
Benfica presidential candidate Joao Noronha Lopes recently said that a contract would “always be waiting” for the midfielder should he wish to return home.
Recent reports from Italy also suggest Juventus are monitoring his situation ahead of a possible marquee free transfer next summer, ala de Bruyne to Napoli.
But Silva has never hidden his affection for Benfica, and it now seems increasingly likely that his next chapter could well bring him full circle – back to where it all began.
Manchester City news and related links
- Manchester City nearing contract extensions for two key young stars
- Ex-Man City midfielder credits Pep Guardiola for shaping his career
- Pep Guardiola hails former Man City star as 'one of the greatest fullbacks'