Statues are not handed out lightly at Manchester City, but in an era defined by sustained success, they have begun to appear with increasing frequency around the Etihad concourse.
There may yet be another in the making, one for a player who has played a pivotal role in delivering 13 major trophies to the club, including four Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph.
Bernardo Silva’s future at City now appears to be approaching a natural conclusion, with his contract entering its final months. Both player and manager seem to be navigating what could be their final push for silverware together at the Etihad Stadium.
According to reports, the Portuguese midfielder has informed Manchester City that he intends to run down his contract in the summer and leave the club. Stating his love for Lisbon and the sunny climate, a move abroad is in the making.
Manchester City must now plan for the future, facing the challenge of replacing a player who has seamlessly operated across a variety of midfield positions throughout his time at the Etihad.
Man City Square takes a look at three potential candidates who could replace Bernardo Silva’s role in midfield, whether in a central attacking position, deeper alongside Rodri, or in wider areas.
Sandro Tonali
With Antoine Semenyo, Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden and Rayan Cherki providing width and attacking movement, Pep Guardiola and Hugo Viana may instead look to strengthen the centre of the pitch.
The Italian brings the same tenacity and intensity to his game that Bernardo Silva offers in midfield, constantly driving forward and covering every blade of grass in both defensive and attacking phases.
However, if he is to join the club, or another suitor, this summer, Tonali will need to push for a move away from Newcastle United. There is reportedly no gentleman’s agreement in place regarding the 25-year-old’s future and with Newcastle’s failure to secure Champions League football next season, this will be the decisive factor.
A move that is possible but will come with a hefty price tag.
Elliot Anderson
It is understood that the new England regular is the leading target in the club’s summer transfer plans, with a move likely to be pursued before the World Cup.
Arguably the best number eight outside the Premier League’s top four, his range of forward passing would replicate much of Bernardo Silva’s influence, helping to dictate attacking play while maintaining possession.
Nottingham Forest’s involvement in a possible relegation battle this season could also work in City’s favour, particularly if they are ultimately relegated to the Championship. Securing him for less than the reported £80 million may still be possible, although winning the Europa League would almost certainly strengthen Forest's negotiating position and make any deal far more difficult.
Much will depend on how the situation develops over the coming months, particularly regarding any potential points deductions and the uncertainty surrounding Guardiola’s future beyond the end of the season.
Warren Zaïre-Emery
This is perhaps the option most likely to raise eyebrows among the City fanbase, given he has not been heavily linked with a move away from Paris Saint-Germain and is not yet a regular starter in their starting XI.
However, the Frenchman is versatile across midfield and naturally looks to play forward. If Pep Guardiola remains in charge next season, he could mould the youngster into exactly the type of player his system requires, with many of Bernardo Silva’s qualities capable of being developed in his game.
It would likely take a significant fee to prise him away from PSG, with his home-grown status in France adding a premium of £20–30 million on top of his ability.