Fernandinho confirms decision to leave Manchester City
Guardiola was surprised to hear the news revealed by the Brazilian midfielder.
Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho has suggested his time at the Premier League club is coming to an end. The Brazilian has been a key figure for City since arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013.
In his time in Manchester, Fernandinho has helped the club win four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and the EFL Cup six times.
Spanish player Rodri has become the key defensive midfielder in Guardiola’s side, meaning the Brazilian has less and less game time. He has played 23 times all competitions this season, with 12 of those coming as starts.
“I don’t think so,” Fernandinho replied on Tuesday when questioned about extending his stay in Manchester.
“I want to play regularly. I will go back to Brazil. I decided with my family, which is the most important for me.”
City manager Pep Guardiola was surprised to find out the veteran player was leaving the club.
“Oh, I didn’t know. You give me the news,” he said. “I didn’t hear it. We will see what happens. I don’t know what will happen. He is so important. I’ll ask him.
“At the end of the season we talk, maybe it’s because of his family. I would love it. We will talk.”
“The role he plays this season, I like the people who behave behind the scenes. I know what he has done, he handles many of our players and stars for the benefit of the team. I praise him and he was here when I arrived. We know him well, from day one to now always here. An incredible player for Man City. There are things nobody knows but I know exactly,” Guardiola added.
City travel to take on Atlético Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday. They currently lead 1-0 from their Champions League quarter-final first leg.