Sidelined By Benfica, Bernardo Silva Took Inspiration From Lionel Messi & Barcelona Rivals To Revive His Career- “Wanted To Loan Me”

Manchester City star Bernardo Silva is amongst the best players in his position. The Portuguese midfielder has consolidated his place in Pep Guardiola‘s playing eleven, with the team relying on the player on multiple occasions. However, not everyone expected Silva to become this successful. In fact, people during his early years were doubtful about his skill owing to his height! However, Silva never lost hope because he had the perfect heroes to pave the path for him!

The Manchester City star grew up watching Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona, which assisted him in developing his game. Silva touched down on how the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta inspired him to give his best, despite his physical stature.

The Portuguese stated, “Benfica wanted to loan me to a smaller club in Lisbon. I was smaller, thinner, and slower than other players. Then I fought and I tried my best to keep going. I had inspiration because there was that team at Barcelona with Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Pedro–all the small guys together,” stated Bernardo Silva.

He continued, “If they do it, I can also do it. Even with David Silva at City, when you are younger you try to grab these hopes. From the moment I signed my first professional contract, that’s when I started playing again. I moved to Monaco and I thought I was at a good level and I started believing I could reach that very good level.”

Bernardo Silva has come a long way since his early days with Manchester City who is now amongst the most sought-after stars in the world. Notably, PSG and Barcelona are keen on signing the Portuguese but could face stiff competition from the Saudi Arabian outfit Al Nassr as they chase the Sky Blues star.

European elites keen on securing a move for Bernardo Silva

With Bernardo Silva’s contract ending next summer, multiple clubs are keen on securing the Portuguese’s signatures. Silva has a $55 million release clause that activates this summer. Manchester City is open to letting the player leave if any team triggers his release clause. While Pep Guardiola has reiterated his desire to have the player renew his contract, Bernardo Silva seems to be looking for a new challenge after his consecutive plaudits with the Sky Blues.

According to reports, Bernardo Silva is leaning toward a move to Barcelona but knows a deal is tough to materialize considering Barcelona’s financial turmoil. Meanwhile, PSG also wants to add more quality to their midfield and believes the ex-Monaco player could be the perfect addition to their squad.

However, the two European clubs could have to fend off Al Nassr’s interest with the Saudi Arabian outfit likely to bring out their checkbook for the player this summer. Do you think Bernardo Silva will remain at Manchester City or join a different club this summer? Pen your thoughts in the comments below.