Guardiola’s assistant Pep Lijnders has suggested that the Manchester City captain will leave at the end of the season
Bookmark popover
Pep Guardiola (right) insists he knows nothing about Bernardo Silva’s future plansopen image in gallery
Pep Guardiola (right) insists he knows nothing about Bernardo Silva’s future plans (Getty Images)
Your support helps us to tell the story
Read moreSupport Now
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
**Your support makes all the difference.**Read more
Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Bernardo Silva as his captain nears the end of his Manchester City career - but claims he is yet to be told of his departure.
Silva looks set to leave City when his contract expires this summer after nine years at the Etihad Stadium, and assistant manager Pep Lijnders all but confirmed as much last week.
"Every good story comes to an end and I hope he enjoys the last months - because there is only six weeks - and has a good farewell," said Lijnders.
There has been no official confirmation by the club or Silva, however, and Guardiola insists he is still in the dark.
The City manager said: "I'm so grumpy with Bernardo because a month ago I said, 'If you take a decision I have to be the first to (know)' and he didn't say anything to me yet.
"I said, jokingly, 'Tell me, I deserve it' but he didn't tell me so I don't know what's going on!"
Silva has made 450 appearances for City since his move from Monaco in 2017. His honours include six Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Club World Cup, two FA Cups and five Carabao Cups.
Bernardo Silva appears set to leave Manchester City this summeropen image in gallery
Bernardo Silva appears set to leave Manchester City this summer (PA Archive)
After City's underwhelming 2024-25 season, Guardiola appointed him captain this term, believing he had the perfect attributes for the role.
"The best decision I made this season," Guardiola said.
"The team comes first. Sometimes politicians say something like that - the country comes first but then after it never comes first - but with Bernardo it is what it is.
"Last season was the toughest one but he was always there, leading by example playing and training good."
Guardiola says Silva has been one of the most reliable players of his near 10-year tenure.
He said: "He is really good in all departments. He plays a lot of games. Nine years we have been together and no injuries and never out.
Silva has made 450 appearances for City and his successes include six Premier League titles and the Champions Leagueopen image in gallery
Silva has made 450 appearances for City and his successes include six Premier League titles and the Champions League (PA Archive)
"He can play in different positions, he is so smart and reads every moment what the action and game requires."
Guardiola, whose side travel to Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday, values the 31-year-old for far more than goals and assists.
He said: I judge players when everything is difficult and he always steps up and says he is here to help.
"He has been an incredible signing for us, incredible. I love this club amazingly and I would love if he could stay and finish his career here but I do not know.
"He will decide what he will decide and announce to the club and the media and the fans. It is his decision."
PA