According to Jorge Nicola, as cited by Sport Witness, Fernandinho is unlikely to leave Manchester City in the upcoming January transfer window. The midfielder holds a lot of respect for the club and has no intention of leaving the Etihad before his contract expires at the end of the season. Fernandinho is even considering an offer from Pep Guardiola that would make him a part of the Catalan’s coaching staff.
Fernandinho: A Club Legend?
Fernandinho has been an ever-present figure in the Manchester City team ever since joining the club in 2013. During his eight and a half years at Etihad, he has featured in 365 competitive matches for the club, helping City win four Premier League titles and become one of the best clubs in Europe.
Fernandinho’s role in the first-team, though, has dissipated in recent years, which is understandable given his age. The Brazilian notably featured in just over 1,100 minutes of league football last season, falling behind Rodri in the pecking order.
It has been a similar story this term, with the midfielder starting in only three of Manchester City’s 18 Premier League matches. The veteran has largely played as a backup for Rodri in the holding midfielder, while occasionally coming in as late substitutes to help Man City see off their lead.
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A Massive Boost For Manchester City?
Fernanndinho remaining at Etihad throughout the remainder of the campaign could serve as a massive boost for Pep Guardiola, considering Manchester City’s lack of depth in the midfield department.
Kevin de Bruyne has already struggled with injuries, while Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva are more attack-minded options in the middle of the park. It leaves Rodri as the only reliable option in the holding midfield role
The presence of someone like Fernandinho could certainly be useful, especially under Guardiola, who likes to make chops and changes to his team week in week out. The Brazilian offers a vast experience while his leadership qualities could be essential as the Citizens look to successfully defend their title during the second half of the campaign.
Not to mention, Fernandinho can also operate in central defence, if required. He has served as a back-up for the likes of Ruben Dias and John Stones in the past, and such versatility could be useful, should Manchester City suffer any injury crisis next year. Hence, the Brazilian’s prolonged stay at Etihad could be a blessing for the reigning English champions.
