Rony Lopes and Bernardo Silva have both come through Benfica’s academy. Born in 1994 and 1995, the Portuguese players built a friendship playing together at club and national levels.
In 2012, Rony Lopes was sold to Manchester City. In 2014, Bernardo Silva was sold to Monaco. Then in 2015, Lopes left City to join Monaco as well, and this summer it’s Silva who is heading to Manchester City.
“I sent him a message to say I was happy for him, Bernardo deserves it,” said Lopes, who claims that Silva’s move was a secret and he only got to know when it really happened.
“I only spoke to him when everyone knew he was going to sign. I really like City and now with Bernardo there, I will follow them more.
“They fit in perfection. He will do well because the club has excellent professionals and Bernardo will be able to evolve even more.”
Lopes also took the chance to confirm he was very well treated when he signed for the English club: “Manchester City supported me since the day I got there. For example, I couldn’t speak English and they supported me at the maximum. Although we’re different cases, Man City will help Bernardo in the best way. I have no doubts.”
The midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Lille, now hopes Silva moving to Manchester City will help him to get into Monaco’s lineup more easily: “The exit of a player always makes more room in the squad and it will end up helping me. Then, it’s about trusting my potential and showing that I have quality to play in this Monaco side.”
Rony Lopes only made five official appearances for Manchester City, and managed to get a decent record with two assists and one goal.
He was sold to AS Monaco in 2015 for €12m.
