Bernardo Silva's decision to bid farewell to Manchester City caught people off guard on a summer afternoon. Even Pep Guardiola, a master of troop mobilization, could only watch the Portugal international walk towards La Liga step by step with his football boots. Strange to say, even if Manchester City offered a generous salary increase of 3 million, it seems that it can't stop him from pursuing a new challenge. So, why is that? Let's lift the veil of mystery.
First of all, let's talk about Manchester City's performance this season. To be honest, this team seems to have lost its former glory, and the gap between Arsenal and Liverpool in the Premier League is only one point, but it just can't catch up with that momentum. Not only that, but the team's midfield has plummeted due to injuries and departures, making it impossible to ask: "Is this still the Manchester City we are familiar with?" and especially with Bernardo Silva, we see a player's thirst for challenge and a yearning for a new environment.
Bernardo Silva's seven years at Manchester City have been rain or shine, and he has won Pep Guardiola's favor with his excellent technique and versatility. But even such a darling has the heart to fly out and have a look. It was previously reported that he wanted to transfer, but because of the transfer fee, he has not been able to get his wish. And this time, he seems to have made up his mind, and even in the face of the coveted salary increase, he chose to follow his heart's calling.
Barcelona, the name has an irresistible charm for any footballer. It is said that Barcelona has begun to contact Manchester City to try to settle the £50 million liquidated damages in installments. Imagine a teammate on the national team whispering in their ears and persuading them to join this long-established team, how can this temptation not be heartwarming?
Manchester City, for their part, obviously did not want to let him go. But as the saying goes, a twisted melon is not sweet, and if a player's heart has flown elsewhere, then leaving him will only be a burden to each other. Manchester City seem to be aware of this and have started looking for alternatives, with Paqueta's name popping up in the transfer market. It is reported that the two sides have reached an agreement at the negotiating table, leaving only final consultations with West Ham United.
Let's go back to the story of Bernardo Silva. When a player decides to leave, his choice should be respected regardless of the outcome. The journey between Manchester City and Bernardo Silva was full of laughter and tears, but it was all over for a better start. For Bernardo Silva, joining Barcelona is not just a new challenge, but an opportunity to make his dream come true. We can't predict the future, but we can hope that the new environment will give him new inspiration and take him further on the road of football.
As for Pep Guardiola, the former Barcelona coach, he can only bless his favorite player and hope that he can achieve something on the new stage. For Manchester City, life is endless, the fight is endless, and the team will always find new direction and motivation to continue to write their own glory in the Premier League and Europe.
All in all, Bernardo Silva's departure may be a big loss for Manchester City, but for him personally, it is a big step towards a new life. In the world of football, every decision is full of unknowns and challenges, but it is these unknowns and challenges that make football a sport full of infinite charm and possibilities. Let us send our best wishes for Bernardo Silva's future, and at the same time, we hope that Manchester City can bring us more surprises and touches in the new season.