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The contract of the 31-year-old is set to conclude at the season's finish. He has yet to finalize an extension and has been associated with top-tier teams such as Barcelona from La Liga, Serie A's Juventus, and several American clubs.
Lijnders spoke to the media following Saturday's 4-0 victory in the FA Cup quarter-finals against Liverpool, while manager Pep Guardiola served a touchline suspension, and shared thoughts on the significance of the Portuguese international to the team.
"You cannot substitute a player with one that is exactly the same because such players are rare," he remarked.
"Bernardo Silva is one of a kind. His ability to control matches, his movement, his receiving skills, his leadership, and his vision for solutions are all exceptional."
"However, it will be challenging because, as I mentioned, in the game when he is absent, you will realize his absence – and that’s just one match. Consider how that would be over an entire season."
"Yet, every great narrative eventually concludes, and I hope he relishes these final weeks – only six remain – and receives a fitting send-off."
"He has earned all the recognition he can get."
Silva, having joined the club from Monaco in 2017, marked his 450th match for the team in Saturday's victory, while the recent Carabao Cup achievement represented his 18th trophy with City.
Guardiola has long valued Silva, who has been his most frequently chosen player during his managerial tenure, and appointed him captain after Kevin de Bruyne’s exit at the conclusion of the previous season.
City has been rumored to be pursuing Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson this summer, yet Lijnders also emphasized the significance of the City Academy.
"You don't look for a direct replacement for a specific type of player," he continued. "You seek what is essential for the team's development and someone capable of integrating into the starting eleven."
"And you hope that, with our academy and the young talents we have acquired, they can advance as well in the midfield roles."
"When observing our youth in the academy, it’s crucial that they step up and mature."
"However, what matters most is that the veteran players who have been around for a long time remain with us, providing continuity, so that around them, the team can evolve." https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c1krz9kxrdvo
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