Bernardo Silva has shed light on his decision to reject enticing offers, including ones from the emerging Saudi Arabian market, and stay with Manchester City during the recent summer transfer window.
The Portugal international faced uncertainty regarding his future but ultimately opted to remain a crucial part of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
Despite reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain and the intriguing offers from Saudi Arabia, Silva expressed his desire to continue experiencing the “heat” of playing in UEFA Champions League moments.
“I would lie if I said I didn’t think about the big-money offers from Saudi Arabia,” admitted Silva in a candid interview with Portuguese media outlet RTP.
“What interested me was the heat of playing a UEFA Champions League semi-final, listening to the (Etihad) stadium going wild after scoring against (Real) Madrid in the semi-finals or when we won the final against Inter. I didn’t want to give up on that.”
The Etihad ERUPTS as Bernardo Silva places it expertly in the near post 🎯
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 17, 2023
Incredible start by Man City
📺 Watch the #UCL live here: https://t.co/qbeliIQiRA pic.twitter.com/p5D9ZcpIPh
The 29-year-old playmaker has proven pivotal to Manchester City’s success this season, contributing commanding performances across various competitions and aiding the team’s current position atop the Premier League.
With Portugal’s recent European Championship qualification matches behind him, Silva is set to resume duties with last season’s Treble winners. Manchester City faces a significant challenge as they host Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday lunchtime.