Manchester City’s FA Cup triumph at Wembley was about more than another medal, another final won and another trophy lifted under Pep Guardiola.
Beneath the celebrations and confetti, there was also a sense that an important chapter in the club’s modern history is nearing its conclusion.
A narrow 1-0 victory over Chelsea, secured through Antoine Semenyo’s late back-heeled effort, delivered City’s eighth FA Cup crown and Guardiola’s 20th major honour since arriving at the Etihad Stadium.
Yet as the players celebrated in front of supporters after the final whistle, attention also drifted towards two familiar figures who may have experienced their final Wembley success in City colours.
Bernardo Silva and John Stones, both central figures during Guardiola’s dominant era, are expected to leave the club this summer.
Their potential departures have already stirred emotion within the dressing room, particularly among teammates who have shared years of success alongside them.
For Rodri, the moment carried a deeply personal meaning.
The Spain international, speaking after the victory, admitted that saying goodbye to Silva and Stones has been difficult because their relationship extends well beyond football.
The midfielder has spent years alongside both men through title races, European nights and trophy celebrations, while also building close friendships away from the pitch.
“Very tough, because more than the fact that they are amazing players, the fact that we are friends, that we lived lots of things together, families, everything, that’s for me the saddest thing,” Rodri told BBC Sport.
His comments reflected the emotional weight behind the occasion. Manchester City’s dominance under Guardiola has often been defined by tactical innovation and relentless consistency, but the manager has also built a squad filled with players who have shared experiences over several seasons. Silva and Stones have become key members of that core.
Together, the pair helped shape one of the most successful periods in English football history.
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The exits of Silva and Stones represent more than the loss of two experienced squad members. They also signal another stage in the rebuilding of Guardiola’s side following years of sustained success.
Rodri’s influence in midfield has grown significantly in recent seasons, but both Silva and Stones played important roles in helping him operate effectively at the heart of City’s system.
Their departures will therefore leave both emotional and footballing gaps inside the squad.
Rodri acknowledged the sadness surrounding the situation, while also insisting there is satisfaction in seeing both players leave with another trophy added to their collection.
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“But life is like this, you try to move on, it’s also positive to say goodbye in a good way, and they both were outstanding in this sense,” he said.
“And we will never forget this year with them. Thank you for everything, and they deserve everything.”
Those words captured the respect Silva and Stones command within the City dressing room. Both players endured setbacks during their time at the club, yet repeatedly returned to play decisive roles in Guardiola’s plans.
Silva was regularly linked with moves away from Manchester over recent years but continued to deliver high-level performances whenever called upon. His professionalism and consistency earned admiration from teammates and supporters alike.
Stones also overcame injury difficulties and periods of uncertainty to establish himself as one of Europe’s most technically accomplished defenders. Guardiola’s faith in him was rewarded during some of the club’s biggest achievements.
