One of Portugal’s most respected football icons, Humberto Coelho, believes there is no doubt that Bernardo Silva will soon leave Manchester City and eventually find his way back to Benfica, the club where his footballing story began.
Silva, now 31, has become one of Manchester City’s most influential players since his £43 million move from AS Monaco in 2017.
Over the years, he has established himself as a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s side, helping them dominate English football and reach unprecedented heights in Europe.
“He will return to Benfica” – Coelho confirms
Speaking to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Coelho — a former Portugal captain who earned over 60 caps between the 1970s and early 1980s — expressed absolute certainty that Silva’s journey will one day lead him home to Lisbon.
“I know that no matter who the president is, Bernardo Silva will return to Benfica,” Coelho said, in comments translated by Sport Witness.
The former defender, widely regarded as one of Benfica’s greatest ever players, acknowledged that a return right now would be unrealistic given Silva’s current position at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
“Right now, it’s impossible to bring him back. He’s at an extraordinary club where he earns a fortune. But I’m sure that one day he’ll be back,” he added.
Silva has been a key figure in Manchester City’s era of dominance under Guardiola, collecting six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups and the coveted UEFA Champions League trophy in 2023.
His leadership qualities were further recognised when he took on the captain’s armband after a series of senior departures from the squad, including Ilkay Gundogan and Kyle Walker.
Despite his success in England, speculation continues to swirl around the midfielder’s long-term future.
With his current deal running until the summer of 2026, Silva’s next move remains uncertain, particularly with reports suggesting there have been no recent discussions about extending his contract.
Humberto Coelho’s admiration for Silva goes well beyond his talent on the pitch.
Having observed the midfielder’s rise closely, the former Benfica man praised both his technical excellence and his personality.
“He has character, strength, intelligence, and he’s very kind,” Coelho said. “He speaks several languages. He’s a fantastic person and a fantastic player.”
Silva’s charm and professionalism have earned him admiration across English football.
Even rival supporters have acknowledged his skill and composure, while teammates often cite his intelligence and humility as key attributes that elevate the team’s chemistry.
For Guardiola, Silva’s versatility and tactical understanding have made him indispensable.
The Portuguese international has seamlessly adapted to multiple roles — from attacking midfield to false nine, and even deeper central positions — always delivering with consistency and flair.
However, as the club continues to evolve following a summer of significant changes, it’s certain that Bernardo Silva will soon leave Manchester City.
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During a recent UEFA Champions League press conference, Silva hinted that his decision regarding life after City might already have been made.
Guardiola, meanwhile, admitted that he remains “unaware” of what his midfielder is planning.
Such uncertainty has only fuelled talk of an emotional return to Benfica — a dream that many fans of the Portuguese giants continue to cherish.
The Lisbon-born playmaker came through the club’s famed academy but made just three senior appearances before moving to Monaco in 2014, where he quickly blossomed into one of Europe’s most promising creative talents.
Since then, Silva’s career has followed a near-perfect trajectory: from Ligue 1 to Premier League, crowned by his triumph in Europe’s biggest club competition. But for all the medals and accolades, the pull of home may prove irresistible.
