Man City boss Pep Guardiola was caught off guard after Fernandinho said he will not renew his Manchester City contract.
Fernandinho has been a key City player since arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013. He helped the club win four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, and six EFL Cups.
However, at the age of 36, he now supports Rodri in Guardiola’s midfield, with the Brazilian able to fill in the back midfield if needed.
Fernandinho has played 23 games in all competitions this season, although only 12 of them have started again on Tuesday, he has indicated he will not sign a new contract, and his contract will expire at the end of 2021-22.
“I don’t think so,” he told a news conference when asked if he would extend his stay in Manchester.
“I want to play regularly. I will return to Brazil. I have decided with my family, which is very important to me.”
However, Guardiola was surprised.
“Oh, I didn’t know. You gave me this news,” said the City manager as it was his turn to address the media.
“I did not hear we will see what will happen I do not know what will happen he is very important I will ask him.
“At the end of the season we talk, maybe it’s because of his family. I would like to. We’ll talk.”
Extending Fernandinho’s appreciation, Guardiola added: “The role he plays this season, I like people who behave in the background.
“I know what he has done, he is holding many of our players and stars to help the team, I commend him and he was there when I arrived.
“We know him very well, from day one until now he has always been here. A wonderful Man City player. There are some things you don’t know anyone but I know very well.”
City faces Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, holding on for a 1-0 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final match.
