Pep Guardiola was surprised by Fernandinho’s decision to leave the club after the current season, and the Catalan insisted he was unaware of the news.
Fernandinho has been one of the best purchases made by Manchester City since their takeover by the City Football Group. He ranks alongside club greats Yaya Toure, David Silva and Sergio Aguero, bringing success with some exemplary performances in the light blue shirt.
Ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, Fernandinho announced he would be leaving the club after a stellar career at the Etihad. The Brazilian midfielder has been at the heart of Manchester City’s midfield for years together until the arrival of Rodri a few seasons ago.
His comments were picked up by the BBC, as Fernandinho said, “I will go back to Brazil. I decided with my family, which is the most important for me.”
Following the announcement, Pep Guardiola was quizzed by the press ahead of the midweek Champions League clash regarding Fernandinho’s imminent departure. The Manchester City manager was surprised, and he insisted he was unaware of the Brazilian’s decision to quit.
I was 100% honest and spontaneous in answering that question at today's press conference. But anyone who knows me also knows that my greatest honesty is with Man City and my duties as team captain.
— Fernandinho (@fernandinho) April 12, 2022
Guardiola said, “I didn’t know it. We will see what happens at the end of the season. We don’t know what’s going to happen. Fernandinho, I’ve said many times, is so important for me. We will see what happens but, anyway, I will talk to him.”
“Maybe it’s a family decision, or maybe he wants more minutes than he has had this season, I don’t know. I will speak to him, of course, but this kind of situation…at the end of the season we are going to talk,” he added.
Whichever way the talks between Guardiola and the midfielder go, Fernandinho has been a tremendous signing for Manchester City since arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk back in 2013. The 36-year-old has made 373 appearances in all competitions, winning the Premier League four times.
There could be a fifth title on the cards and the Champions League crown if Manchester City can cross all hurdles ahead of them. In the end, Fernandinho will go down as a Manchester City legend for his exemplary contribution to the club’s success.
