Pep Guardiola got emotional after seeing what the Man City and Aston Villa players did for Bernardo Silva.
Pep Guardiola was moved to tears after every Aston Villa player joined the Manchester City team in giving Bernardo Silva a guard of honour as he left the Etihad Stadium in his final game for the club.
It was a touching moment for Silva, who will be leaving City when his contract ends in June.
The 33-year-old has made over 450 appearances during his nine years in Manchester and has won 19 major trophies with City, including six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and two FA Cups.
Before the game started, Silva was seen wiping away tears as he stepped onto the Etihad pitch for the last time.
Then, in the 58th minute, the Portuguese midfielder got a standing ovation from everyone in the stadium after he was substituted, including the visiting team.
Aston Villa’s players even formed a guard of honour for Silva, and he was clearly very touched by the warm welcome. You can see this special moment below.
According to MARCA, Atletico Madrid are leading the race to sign Silva. The Spanish club sees him as the perfect replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who is moving to MLS side Orlando City.
Silva feels that working with Diego Simeone at Atletico is the right step for the next chapter of his career. The club is reportedly ready to offer him a generous signing bonus to make the deal happen.
Juventus was also interested in Silva and was willing to offer him a €8 million yearly salary with a contract until 2028, but it seems talks did not go through.
Back in April, Silva shared a heartfelt message when he announced his decision to leave City.
He said: “When I arrived 9 years ago, I was chasing a boy’s dream of succeeding and achieving great things. This city and club gave me so much more than I ever imagined.
“What we achieved together is a legacy I will always cherish. The Centurions, the domestic quadruple, the Treble, the Four In A Row, and more… It wasn’t that bad.
“In a few months, it’s time to say goodbye to the city where we won so much, and where I started my marriage and family. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Ines and Carlota.
“To the fans, your support over the years means the world to me. I always tried to play with passion so you could be proud and well represented.
“I hope you felt that every game. I came as a Man City player, but I leave as one of you, a lifelong City fan. Keep backing this young team—I’m sure they’ll create many more amazing memories for you.”
He also added: “Thanks to the club, Pep, the staff, and all my teammates over these 9 years. I’m grateful for all the memories and for being part of this journey so long.”