Manchester City's Bernardo Silva Set to Leave: Impact Felt Even in Alabama Soccer Circles

**Why it matters locally:** While the departure of Bernardo Silva from Manchester City primarily affects European football, it has a marginal impact on Alabama residents through a few avenues. Firstly, many Alabamians are passionate soccer fans and avidly follow international leagues like the English Premier League. Silva's performances have been broadcast in the US, so his career trajectory is of interest to some fans. It might affect the sports viewing choices of some soccer enthusiasts in Alabama. --- Manchester, England — Bernardo Silva will depart Manchester City at the end of the season, the club announced Thursday. Silva, a Portuguese international midfielder, joined City in 2017 from Monaco. During his nine years with the club, Silva made 451 appearances and won 15 major trophies. His trophy haul includes six Premier League titles and one Champions League title. Silva served as team captain this season, lifting the English League Cup at Wembley Stadium last month. Manchester City is still in contention for both the Premier League and FA Cup titles this season. In a statement released Thursday, Manchester City acknowledged Silva's contributions, noting his popularity and status among the club's greats. Silva posted a farewell message on his Instagram account, stating, "When I arrived 9 years ago, I was following a dream of a little boy, wanting to succeed in life, wanting to achieve great things. 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," Silva said in a letter to City fans, published Thursday. The club said it plans to honor Silva's contributions with a tribute at the end of the season.