In a story that has sent shockwaves across the globe, authorities have now confirmed that a Manchester City football legend was among the victims of the horrific Boeing 767 engine fire that claimed multiple lives in what is now being described as one of the darkest days in recent aviation and sports history.

The incident occurred just moments after takeoff from Heathrow International Airport en route to New York. Eyewitnesses report hearing a loud explosion coming from the aircraft’s right engine, followed by violent shaking and thick black smoke pouring into the sky. Passengers onboard screamed, panicked, and scrambled for safety as the aircraft made an emergency landing attempt — one that, tragically, not everyone survived.

Among those lost was a figure whose name needs no introduction in Manchester: Bernardo Silva — a true legend, a symbol of creativity, loyalty, and unforgettable moments in a sky-blue jersey. Although officials have yet to release the full passenger list to the public, Manchester City insiders and grieving teammates have quietly confirmed what fans feared most — that the football world has lost one of its own.

Tributes began flooding social media within minutes of the news breaking. Former players, managers, and supporters from all corners of the world shared photos, memories, and heartbreak. “I can’t believe he’s gone,” wrote a former teammate. “He was more than a footballer. He was family. And this hurts more than words can say.”

The identity of the player, withheld until family members were notified, was later confirmed by a devastated City spokesperson. “We are heartbroken to confirm the loss of one of our most beloved players, Bernardo Silva, in today’s aviation disaster. This is a tragedy beyond words. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates, and the fans who adored him.”

Bernardo Silva was reportedly en route to New York for a private charity event involving youth football academies. Always known for his humble nature and philanthropic heart, his final mission was to inspire the next generation — a goal he never failed to chase, even off the pitch.

Photos have emerged showing him smiling with fans at the airport just hours before the crash. One young boy, who took a selfie with the star, shared it online with a simple caption: “He told me to never give up. I won’t.”

As investigators dig into the technical failure that led to the engine catching fire, questions are being raised about Boeing’s safety record — and whether this tragedy could have been avoided. Aviation experts are already citing warnings about potential turbine faults and underreported maintenance issues tied to the aircraft model. Some are calling it a disaster waiting to happen.

But for the football world, those answers will have to wait.

For now, grief is overwhelming. The Etihad Stadium has become a site of mourning, with flowers, scarves, and handwritten notes pouring in from fans. Candlelight vigils are already being organized, not only in Manchester but across Europe and South America, where Bernardo had also built a loyal following.

Football, often described as a game of passion and drama, now finds itself united in something much heavier — loss.

There will be no chants, no roaring crowds, no celebration this week. Just silence. And sorrow. And the aching memory of a star who soared high on the pitch, only to fall far too soon from the sky.

His name will live on in highlight reels, in jerseys, and in hearts — but the tragedy of his final flight will forever cast a shadow over a game that has lost one of its brightest lights.