Bernardo Silva is in favour of Hugo Viana’s appointment as Manchester City’s next sporting director – even its just on the basis of his nationality.
After it emerged that long-term sporting director Txiki Begiristain is to leave City after 13 years, the club have moved quickly to snap up Sporting’s Viana. The former Newcastle player will begin work in 2025 as City try to ensure a seamless transfer at executive level.
Viana has developed a big reputation in his homeland of Portugal and City will hope he can keep their success going, working alongside Pep Guardiola.
Bernardo has been quoted by Portuguese media outlet Record as giving a brief but positive verdict on Viana.
He said: “I don’t know him personally, but being Portuguese it will be positive for us.”
Bernardo Silva Man City contract, transfer rumours
As well as doubt over Guardiola’s future as manager, with his contract expiring in summer 2025, a number of City players could depart in the coming months.
Bernardo’s own future has long been subject to speculation and the 2025 summer transfer window – Viana’s first in the job – could see another saga develop with regards to the 30-year-old playmaker. Bernardo’s City contract expires in 2026 and he’s been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, as well as various clubs in Spain.
The versatile attacking midfield player joined City from Monaco in 2017 and has won multiple league titles as well as the Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup and Club World Cup under Guardiola at the Etihad.
He featured for Portugal in both their games in the international break just gone, against Poland and Scotland.
