Bernardo Silva, a standout player for Manchester City, has announced that he will decide on his next club prior to the 2026 World Cup, keeping the hopes of Juventus alive while asserting he will not be returning to Benfica.
The Portuguese international is among Juventus’ top targets for the summer transfer window. With his contract at Manchester City set to expire at the end of the season, Silva will be available on a free transfer. Reports from Italy indicate that discussions with the Serie A club are already in progress.
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Bernardo Silva to Choose New Club Before 2026 World Cup
“I aim to have this resolved by the end of the season, just ahead of training with the National Team, so I can focus fully on the World Cup, which is a crucial tournament for me,” Bernardo Silva told Sport 11.
Clubs such as Juventus, Barcelona, Benfica, and Galatasaray are reportedly vying for his signature, yet Silva has made it clear he will not return to Benfica for the 2026-27 season.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City during the Premier League match against Nottingham Forest at Etihad Stadium on March 04, 2026. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
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“I’ve already stated that I won’t be going back to Benfica,” he confirmed.
“I have one clear goal: I want to return to that club someday. However, I can’t be certain if they would want me back when that time comes.”
As the team captain at Manchester City, Bernardo Silva has confirmed he will depart the Etihad Stadium when his contract ends on June 30. This season, the 31-year-old has netted three goals and provided five assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.
Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport in April revealed that Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti had reached out personally to Silva, hoping to convince him to make the move to Turin.
Currently, Juventus ranks third in Serie A and remains in the hunt for a Champions League spot, just one point ahead of Roma and Milan, who are both tied on 67 points with two matches left to play.