Manchester City have endured somewhat of a disappointing campaign in 2024/25, with any hopes of retaining their Premier League title out of the window with just eight games remaining.
Pep Guardiola’s side only remain in the FA Cup, but will face an in-form Nottingham Forest side, who have recently beaten them, to have any chance of ending the season on a high.
A rebuild is desperately needed at the Etihad this summer, with groundwork being done in January after the arrivals of Abdukodir Khusanov, Victor Reis, Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez.
However, if it is to continue this summer, the Spaniard will have to brutally part ways with numerous fan-favourites who have helped the club achieve the heights they have in recent years.
One of which could be set for a switch in the coming months, potentially cashing in at the right time and ending his eight-year stint in the Citizens’ first-team.
Real Madrid plot summer move for Manchester City star
According to Spanish outlet DefensaCentral, Real Madrid are keen on a summer move for City midfielder Bernardo Silva – a move that could kickstart any rebuild in Manchester.
The Portuguese international has been a regular in Guardiola’s side since his transfer from Monaco back in the summer of 2017, often being a dependable figure in their success.
However, with Bernardo turning 31 this summer and his deal expiring in 2026, it could provide the right time to part ways and allow for fresh blood at the Etihad.
The report states that the LaLiga giants are huge admirers of Silva and keen to make a move this window, but won’t pay over the odds given his age and contract scenario.
Whilst on the face of things, offloading a player who’s made 40 appearances this season may seem like a big call, the time has ultimately come for the next generation to stake their claim in the first-team.
Why City should look to sell Bernardo to Real Madrid this summer
There’s no denying that Silva has been a modern-day icon for City, racking up just shy of 400 appearances, and winning a total of 14 major trophies during his stint at the club.
However, despite his huge tally of outings this season, the midfielder, who’s valued at £46m by Football Transfers, has ultimately failed to match his usual high standards, with Guardiola needing to inject more energy into the heart of the side.
This summer could prove the last chance for the hierarchy to gain any money back on their investment, risking losing the “world-class” star, as labelled by Statman Dave, for nothing next January – with other clubs able to agree a pre-contract for his signature.
Games played
33
26
Goals & assists
15
6
Pass accuracy
90%
87%
Chances created
2.3
1.8
Dribble success
65%
52%
Duel success rate
50%
47%
Touches per 90
81
68
Gonzalez has already shown glimpses early on in his City career that he’s capable of being a key member for years to come, with a plethora of other young talent waiting in the wings.
Nico O’Reilly has demonstrated in recent weeks that he’s capable of stepping up to the plate, staking his claim for a regular starting role after notching two assists against Bournemouth – helping the club reach the next stage of the FA Cup.
Whilst the 20-year-old operated at left-back against the Cherries, he’s primarily a central midfielder, with Silva’s potential departure opening the door for him to thrive in his natural position.
As for James McAtee, he’s also waiting to get a consistent run in Guardiola’s side, only being restricted to substitute appearances within the Premier League this season.
However, the 22-year-old has still managed to notch two goals to date, showcasing he has the talent to become a regular should the Portuguese international depart in the coming months.
Whilst losing Silva would be a huge call, it’s one that is needed if the side are to return to the top of the English top division, needing new blood to take the side back to where they belong.
Investment from the hierarchy could help soften the blow, but it’s important that the manager hands the likes of O’Reilly and McAtee the opportunity to fulfil their potential at their boyhood outfit.
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