Bernardo Silva has now hinted at leaving Manchester City for Benfica on a free transfer in 2026.
The 29-year-old made the comments when speaking to A Bola.
So, what did Bernardo Silva say about Manchester City and Benfica? Let’s take a look…
Bernardo Silva hints at free transfer to Benfica
Well, the Portugal international revealed that he would love to return to Benfica one day – but conceded that his old side will struggle to afford him.
Silva said: “I’ve never hidden that one day I want to go back, so of course I do. Now, we’ll see over time what’s possible… I’m not going to lie. I always say. It’s a reality that I want to return to and I hope that one day it can happen.”
The Manchester City No.20 was then asked when Benfica fans can expect to see him back in Lisbon.
Silva responded: “There are contractual issues that have to be respected. You have to live the reality, that Portuguese football at a financial level cannot compete with English, Spanish or even German and French clubs… even if I I wanted to go to Benfica at the moment it was totally impossible because Manchester City is asking for a lot of money for a transfer for me.
“In the last four or five years I have been a player valued at over €50m (£43m) and it is impossible for a Portuguese club to pay that kind of value. People have to be a little realistic. It would have to be (a free transfer).”
The £43m man signed a new contract running until 2026 back in August, so Manchester City fans still have plenty of time with the Lisbon-born maestro before he departs.
Manchester City have decision to make
With Silva hinting at a free transfer to Benfica in 2026 – when he will be 32 – Manchester City must decide whether to let the midfielder run his contract down, or cash in before that happens.
The Portugal international has proven to be vital for Pep Guardiola once again this season – most recently shining against Everton on Wednesday – so it would make sense to keep him.
However, with Financial Fair Play balances needing to be taken into account, a significant offer for Silva may be considered by Manchester City before his deal expires in 2026.
