David Silva gave Manchester City fans the news they were fearing when he confirmed he will not be at the club next season. But he might have left the door open for a return to the Etihad in the future. Silva has been expected to leave City this summer, but the uncertainty surrounding the end of the season had given some supporters hope he could be persuaded to stay for another season to say a proper goodbye to fans. With games almost certain to be played behind closed doors between now and the end of the season, Silva’s decision means he has played infront of City fans for the last time.

David Silva said: “When I say one thing, I move forward. I am sorry, I have been here ten years and I have fulfilled what I wanted. The cycle closes here, but I will always keep this club in mind for everything I have lived. From the first moment people have treated me incredible. Here they have a great respect for you, people give admiration towards you. Now we need my family and I another challenge.”