Is Bernardo Silva Sending a ‘Come Get Me’ Message to Barcelona?

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva has poured fuel to the fire as transfer speculations linking him with a move to Barcelona continue. The Portuguese has been a vital player for City helping the team to tremendous domestic success last season. He was at one point termed “undroppable” by manager Pep Guardiola and went on to emerge as City’s Player of the Year for 2019. He was also named in last season’s PFA Premier League Team of the Year. Although he has not been as influential in the team this season, his quality is undeniable.

In the wake of the club’s two-year ban from the Champions League, City’s key players have suddenly become the subject of various transfer speculations. While the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling have been linked to Real Madrid, Barcelona are said to be interested in Bernardo. But the player’s response suggests he can’t wait for the move.

The 25-year-old recently granted an interview to SER Catalunya where he spoke of his desire to play alongside Lionel Messi. When asked about it, he stated:

”Of course.

”I play with Cristiano in the national team and if I played with Messi, being able to say that I played with the best in history would be a pleasure, but it is a complicated matter. At City or in Barca it will be welcome.”

At a time when Guardiola has led by example by expressing his desire to stick with City in this trying period, it’s rather unfortunate that some players have chosen to express their desire to play elsewhere. That in itself is not necessarily a problem. But the timing certainly is.

Raheem Sterling has also been put in the spotlight recently having spoken glowingly of Real Madrid during an interview with AS English. He was asked if he would like to play for the Spanish giants.

“(Laughs) How do I answer that one? Is the camera live or is it just taking pictures? No one knows what the future will hold. I am a player and I am always open to challenges but right now my challenge is at Manchester City. In the future, hopefully, who knows..”, was his response.

That effectively leaves the door open for a move whenever the club comes calling. In the end, it’s difficult to blame any player who decides to leave City for “greener pastures”. But it’s important the club finds a way to retain its best players. That’s necessary to keep going strong.