Pep Guardiola has expressed uncertainty regarding Bernardo Silva‘s future at Manchester City, despite having asked the midfielder to communicate directly with him about any plans to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season.
Following a 4-0 victory over Liverpool, Guardiola’s assistant, Pep Lijnders, hinted that Bernardo is likely to depart when his contract concludes this summer.
However, Guardiola maintains that the 31-year-old has yet to officially convey his intentions to the club.
“I’m quite frustrated with Bernardo because about a month ago, I told him, ‘If you make a decision, I need to be the first to know,’ and he hasn’t mentioned anything to me yet,” Guardiola stated at a recent press conference.
“I think the proper course of action should be for Bernardo to tell me. I’m not sure if he’s already made a decision.”
“I jokingly said, ‘Let me know, I deserve it,’ but he hasn’t shared anything, so I’m left wondering.”
Bernardo, who has been with City for nine years, has been rumored to be returning to his boyhood club Benfica, as well as considering options in Spain and Saudi Arabia.
When asked about the former Monaco player, Guardiola playfully remarked that “it feels like a farewell press conference for Bernardo—I’m still in the dark!”
Sources have informed ESPN that Bernardo is expected to leave at the end of the season and is nearing a decision on the next steps in his career.
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“He has been an extraordinary addition for us, and I would be delighted for him to remain and conclude his career here. Ultimately, he will decide when the time is right,” Guardiola commented.
“He has been invaluable in terms of minutes played and titles won, particularly during challenging moments.”
“I evaluate players based on their performance in tough times. Bernardo consistently rises to the occasion, saying ‘I’m here to help.'”