Bernardo Silva has agreed a two-year contract with Real Madrid after leaving Manchester City, the Spanish club announced. The 31-year-old Portugal international, who confirmed in April he would depart the Etihad Stadium at season's end, will officially become a Madrid player when his City contract expires at the end of this month.
Real Madrid's statement read: 'Real Madrid CF and Bernardo Silva have reached an agreement for him to become a Real Madrid player for the next two seasons, until June 30, 2028.' The former Benfica midfielder had been linked with Madrid since his impending departure was revealed, and his capture as a free agent is seen as a significant acquisition given his quality and influence on the pitch.
Silva joined City from Monaco for £43m in May 2017 and spent nine years at the club, playing a key role in their success under Pep Guardiola. He won 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles, one Champions League, three FA Cups, five Carabao Cups, a Club World Cup, and a European Super Cup. His final trophy came in May's 1-0 FA Cup final victory over Chelsea.
In April, Silva posted on Instagram: 'When I arrived nine years ago, I was following a dream of a little boy... This city and this club gave me much more than that, much more than I ever hoped for. What we won and achieved together is a legacy that will forever be cherished in my heart.'
