How Will Manchester City Replace Bernardo Silva After His Departure?

BusinessSportsMoneyHow Will Manchester City Replace Bernardo Silva After His Departure?ByGraham Ruthven,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I am a soccer writer based in the United KingdomFollow AuthorMay 24, 2026, 05:20am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)Visionhaus/Getty ImagesThe focus won’t be on Bernardo Silva as he bids farewell to Manchester City on Sunday. Indeed, the majority of the spotlight will fall on Pep Guardiola as the legendary manager brings down the curtain on 10 years at the Etihad Stadium. The Etihad Stadium will be a very different place without Guardiola.As a player, though, Silva will be almost as impossible for Manchester City to replace. The Portuguese international has been a key member of the City team since 2017 when he arrived from Monaco. Silva has been the ultimate cohesion player for Guardiola and he will be desperately missed.LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City and Pep Guardiola Manager / Head Coach of Manchester City with the Emirates FA Cup trophy during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)Getty ImagesIn terms of his position, it can sometimes be difficult to nail down Bernardo’s exact role. This season, Manchester City has used the 31-year-old as part of the midfield double pivot alongside Rodri. From there, Silva is afforded the freedom to drift out to the wide areas and into pockets of space where he can influence attacking play.Over the time of his Manchester City career, Silva has operated as a winger, a central midfield and a number 10. Hi...