adminMANCHESTER. — Manchester City have secured the future of Silva after the midfielder signed a new contract until 2026.
Bernardo’s previous contract at the Etihad ran until 2025 but City have announced that he has put pen-to-paper on a new one-year contract extension which will keep him with the club until 2026.
“I’ve had six incredible years at Manchester City and I’m delighted to extend my time here,” Bernardo said. “Winning the Treble last season was extremely special and it’s exciting to be part of a squad where there is such a hunger and passion.
“Success makes you want even more, and this Club gives me that opportunity to keep on winning. I love the manager, my teammates and the fans and hope we can share even more great memories in the coming years.”
The news will come as a huge relief to Pep Guardiola who recently said it was his ‘dream’ to keep hold of Bernardo amid another summer of speculation surrounding his future.
The Portuguese playmaker was initially open to a new challenge and was keen on a return to mainland Europe to be closer to home, as he has been for the previous two summers.
However, there have been no issues with his commitment while he’s been under con-tract and confidence had grown in recent weeks that he would extend his stay in Manchester, which has now come to pass in a big positive for the club.
Bernardo is one of Guardiola’s most important players, made even more so by the fact Kevin De Bruyne is unlikely to play again this year after undergoing hamstring surgery.
Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona both showed interest in signing the 29-year-old but no team came close to making a serious offer. City looked at the fees paid for the likes of Declan Rice and Mason Mount this summer and upped their valuation of Bernardo in response.
The Puma home shirt features the traditional sky blue colour but has slightly darker blue detailed stripes across the front which take inspiration from the Etihad Stadium’s walkways. City moved to their new home from Maine Road in 2003 and the shirt honours that anniversary. Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Bernardo has been exceptional during his time at the Etihad, so we’re delighted that he has signed a contract extension with the Club.
“His quality and technical ability is fantastic — and alongside his hard work and professionalism, he has become one of the best players in the world. — The Manchester Evening News
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