Bernardo Silva Opens Up on Life in England, Loyalty to Manchester City
Sports Updated: 27 March 2026 16:36 EAT
Manchester City Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva
Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva has revealed the cultural challenges of living in England, admitting he has previously considered leaving despite his deep affection for the club.
Speaking candidly, Silva contrasted life in Portugal and England, pointing to differences in weather, food, and overall lifestyle as factors that have at times affected his happiness off the pitch.
“Culturally, Portuguese and English are quite different; the weather, the food, the way of living is a bit different. I always joke that if Man City was a bit more [in the] south of Europe, I'd stay until people kicked my ass out! Because I truly love the football club, my teammates, the staff, the fans, the stadium, the atmosphere - everything about my professional life!” Silva said.
The 29-year-old emphasized that while his professional life in Manchester has been fulfilling, his personal life initially proved more difficult, especially during a period when he lived alone in the city.
“Then, the other side of my life, it's different because I'm not saying I don't like, but culturally it's not 100% what I'd ideally want. So in some moments you're not feeling as happy as you want. Before I met my wife, I was alone in Manchester for a period where I didn't feel that well with myself. I definitely thought a lot about leaving, not because I didn't like the football club - which I really love - but because of the other side of my life,” he added.
Despite those challenges, Silva ultimately remained at Manchester City, a decision he now views as pivotal in his career. He has since played a key role in one of the most successful eras in the club’s history.
“At the end, it didn't happen. I'm really happy it didn't! Because I would've probably lost the opportunity to live the memories of the treble, four-in-a-row, opportunity of being a captain, in the leadership group, passing experience to the young guys, trying to put the club back where it deserves,” he said.
Silva concluded with a light-hearted remark underscoring his bond with the club, suggesting geography is the only factor that could have made his stay even longer.
“But if Manchester City was in Lisbon, I'd stay until I'm 40...” he said.
The midfielder remains a central figure at City, balancing elite performance on the pitch with a growing leadership role within the squad.
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FELIX MAKONA
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