Manchester City are facing a pivotal period in their squad planning, as some of their most important players could walk away for free when their current deals end. With the summer of 2026 fast approaching, the club is once again at a crossroads where contracts and strategy intertwine with history and ambition.
There are several Manchester City players with expire contracts in 2026, which means they will be eligible to leave on free transfers if no renewal agreements are reached. This development could shape the future of Pep Guardiola’s squad and have ripple effects across European football.
In recent years, City have allowed high-profile stars to leave for free, often raising questions about the club’s policy of dealing with ageing players and contract extensions. Sergio Agüero, İlkay Gündoğan, and Kevin De Bruyne all left under such circumstances.
City’s rise under Pep Guardiola has been built on a blend of long-term planning, big spending, and the ability to refresh the squad at just the right moments. Yet the club has not shied away from letting legends leave once their contracts expire.
Sergio Agüero, arguably the club’s most iconic striker, departed on a free transfer to Barcelona in 2021 after City decided not to extend his stay. The Argentine left with a legacy that remains unmatched but without a transfer fee that could have boosted City’s finances.
The case of İlkay Gündoğan further underscored this approach. After captaining City to the historic treble in 2023, the German midfielder ran down his contract and joined Barcelona. Although he briefly returned to City a year later, he moved again in the summer to Galatasaray on another free transfer.
Perhaps the most surprising departure was that of Kevin De Bruyne. Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in Premier League history, the Belgian was allowed to leave when his deal ended. At 34, City opted against renewal, prompting him to sign for Napoli in Italy. De Bruyne’s departure signalled the club’s readiness to move on even from a player many considered irreplaceable.
This trend raises a question: could the same fate await the Manchester City players with expire contracts in 2026?
READ MORE: After Cole Palmer, Man City Reject Chelsea’s Offer To Sign Another Wonderkid
The situation threatens to follow a similar path. Bernardo Silva and Stefan Ortega lead the list of names whose contracts run down next year. With no signs of talks currently underway, speculation is intensifying over their future and where they could go next.
Bernardo Silva – Contract ends 30/06/2026
Few players embody the Guardiola era at Manchester City more than Bernardo Silva. Since joining from AS Monaco in 2018, the Portuguese midfielder has established himself as one of the most technically gifted and reliable performers in the Premier League. His energy, intelligence, and versatility have made him indispensable to Guardiola’s system.
Silva has often stepped up in crucial moments, from dominating midfield battles in Champions League ties to scoring decisive goals in title races. He has become the player Guardiola trusts the most.
Yet despite his importance, Silva’s contract situation remains unresolved. His current deal runs until June 2026, and as of now, there have been no reports of negotiations between City and his representatives.
There is also a historical pattern that adds intrigue: recent City captains have all left the club shortly after being given the armband. İlkay Gündoğan, Kevin De Bruyne, and Kyle Walker all moved on within a year of wearing the captain’s armband. With Bernardo Silva having been given same responsibility in the dressing room, it raises the possibility that he too could leave at the end of his contract. At 31 years old, Silva may feel this is the right moment to consider a new challenge.
Stefan Ortega – Contract Ends 30/06/2026
Stefan Ortega may not have the same legendary status as Bernardo Silva, but his situation is equally significant. The German goalkeeper joined City from Arminia Bielefeld in 2022, primarily as a reliable backup to Ederson.
Over the years, Ortega has impressed in cup competitions and provided steady cover when called upon. However, he has struggled to secure a consistent first-team role. With Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival and the emergence of James Trafford, Ortega has slipped further down the pecking order. He has become the third-choice goalkeeper.
His deal runs out in June 2026, and given his current standing in the squad, renewal appears unlikely. For Ortega, leaving on a free transfer could provide the opportunity to secure regular first-team football elsewhere.
Bernardo Silva And Ortega’s Recent Transfer Speculations
As the contracts of Bernardo Silva and Stefan Ortega run down, transfer speculation has intensified.
Silva’s ties to Benfica remain strong. The Portuguese midfielder started his footballing journey at Benfica’s academy before moving to Monaco. He has often spoken about his admiration for the club and the possibility of returning before he retires.
At 32, which he will be by the end of his City deal, a move back to Portugal could be both sentimental and practical.
READ MORE: Top three players Manchester City could sign in January to solve right-back problem
However, Benfica are not the only suitors. Reports across Europe suggest that clubs in Spain, Italy, and France would be eager to secure Silva’s signature. With his ability to adapt across midfield and attacking roles, he would be a major coup for any top side.
For Ortega, the speculation is more scattered. He has been linked to English clubs outside the top six. Also, Saudi Arabian sides continue to explore the possibility of signing experienced European goalkeepers. The financial incentives of a move to the Middle East could appeal, especially if playing time will be guaranteed.
