Guardiola Reflects on Silva's Departure as City Eyes Domestic Treble
Pep Guardiola expressed deep emotions regarding Bernardo Silva's impending departure from Manchester City, stating, "part of myself is leaving" as the Portuguese playmaker prepares to exit at the season's end after a remarkable nine-year stint. Silva confirmed his exit on Thursday, ending speculation about his future and concluding a trophy-laden career at City that boasts 19 honors. Guardiola emphasized the importance of giving Silva a fitting send-off as the team aims to secure the Premier League and FA Cup, potentially completing a domestic treble. Ahead of a crucial match against Arsenal on Sunday, Guardiola described Silva as a pivotal figure, saying: "When these types of players are going, part of myself is leaving too." "He has been massively, massively, massively important." "Hopefully we can deliver a good month, because he deserves it." Silva's impressive record at City includes 76 goals and 77 assists in 451 appearances. His departure follows that of other long-serving players such as Kyle Walker, Ilkay Gundogan, Ederson, and Kevin de Bruyne in the past year. Guardiola dismissed suggestions that City might have an edge over Arsenal in the title race, citing the inexperience of several new players, including Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, who have not yet faced the pressure of a title run-in. He remarked: "Most of them are new, and we will see how they behave." "There are many things you cannot control." As City seeks its fifth league title in six seasons, Guardiola urged his squad to embrace the pressure of the upcoming matches, reinforcing the significance of winning against Arsenal to keep their title hopes alive.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-04-18