In a recent interview with Manchester City‘s official website, Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Fernandinho after he produced another outstanding display against Everton at Goodison Park in the FA Cup quarterfinals last weekend. The Man City head coach said,
“(It was) Another exceptional performance.
“He is composed. He knows what he has to do – on and off the pitch.
“In our last game against Borussia Monchengladbach, the minutes he played were outstanding.
“He needs to be active, he cannot drop too much at home.
“We need everyone after international break because I don’t know how the players will come back.”
When asked about the prospect of offering the Brazilian midfielder a new contract, Guardiola added, “We have time for that,”
Fernandinho’s Solid Form For Man City This Season
Fernandinho is having another incredible season at the Etihad Stadium as he has continued to flourish as a valuable player in Guardiola’s match-day squad. The 35-year-old has made 26 appearances for Man City this term, scoring one goal and grabbing two assists in all competitions.
The veteran midfield ace has performed well to average 1.2 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 0.8 clearances, 0.5 shots and 0.5 dribbles per game in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League this season. Fernandinho has been excellent with his ball-distribution after completing 87.5% of his attempted passes in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
What Does The Experienced Brazilian Add To Pep Guardiola’s Side?
Fernandinho can use his experience well and is often quick to read the danger that allows him to make some crucial interceptions for his team. He remains proficient at disrupting the opposition’s flow in the game and is not shy of clearing his lines when needed.
The 53-time Brazil international can also pass the ball with a lot of conviction and has still got what it takes to be a consistent performer at the highest level. However, at 35, father time is catching up with Fernandinho, which has seen him lose a yard of pace from his game.
Should Man City Offer Fernandinho A New Deal?
With the South American sensation’s contract set to run out at the end of this campaign, Guardiola will have a big decision on his hands heading into the business end of this campaign. Fernandinho can still be one of the best players in the defensive midfield position when he is playing with confidence on the pitch and might still have something to offer at the Etihad in the coming seasons.
Therefore, it is only logical for Man City to consider tieing him down to a short-term contract and keep him in the north-west of England beyond this summer. However, if Guardiola is planning to bring in a younger option to play the defensive midfield role, then he can afford to lose Fernandinho, who is edging closer towards the end of his football career.
