April 12, (THEWILL) – Fernandinho, the veteran Man City midfielder, has stated that he will not be staying at the club beyond the conclusion of the season.
Fernandinho’s current City deal expires at the end of June, and his future has been a source of speculation. As he approaches the end of his career and following the arrival of Rodri in 2019, the 36-year-old has become a bit-part figure in recent seasons.
After nine years of dedicated service, the player has been offered a coaching position under Pep Guardiola, but the club has given him the freedom to do as he pleases. City are reportedly looking for a replacement, whether he stays or departs, according to reports from last month.
However, the former Brazil international has explained his condition, revealing that he intends to leave City and return to Brazil.
“I do not think so,” Fernandinho responded when asked if he expected to sign a new deal at the Etihad Stadium ahead of Man City’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid.
“Yes, I want to play. I will go back to Brazil, for sure. I’ve decided with my family, it’s the most important for me.”
“The same as last season, not playing much but being there for the players and helping where I can,” Fernandinho said when asked about his role and whether he expected to play more this season. Off the field and on the field, at times.
“No [I didn’t expect to play more]. It’s a great squad, after nine years, maybe after the 2018/19 season where I changed my position, it was harder for me to recover. With age, it’s harder, but I put myself in a position to help the team.”
Guardiola claimed that he was ignorant of Fernandinho’s choice. “Oh. I didn’t know,” the Spanish manager said. “You give me the news. 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.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
