In a recent tweet, ESPN Brasil journalist João Castelo-Branco offered an update on Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho’s future. The renowned journalist revealed that there is ‘no chance’ of the Brazilian midfield ace parting ways with the Mancunian outfit this January.
Fernandinho’s Limited Role At The Etihad Stadium This Season
The 36-year-old has played a sporadic role for Man City during this campaign but has served as a decent squad player under the stewardship of Pep Guardiola over the past few months. Fernandinho has registered one goal and one assist in 15 matches for the reigning Premier League champions this season on all fronts.
Most of the Londrina-born talent’s appearances have come off the bench which explains why he is only averaging 0.9 tackles, 0.3 interceptions, 0.3 clearances, 0.6 shots and 0.5 key passes per game in Premier League football. Still, the Brazil international deserves credit for being tidy with his ball distribution after making 85.1% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
The 4th Official uses images provided by the following image agency:
Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/)
Imago Images (https://www.imago-images.de/)
What Should Be Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola’s Play?
Fernandinho remains a solid holding midfielder as he can offer decent protection for his teammates at the back. He is a good tackler of the ball and can secure the ball back for his team at the centre of the park.
The 53-time Brazil international is usually quick to spot the danger and can chip in with the odd goal from time to time. He has a wealth of experience and is an accurate passer of the ball as well which makes him such a valuable presence in the Man City dressing room. However, at 34, father time is slowly catching up with his game.
Fernandinho is still good enough to offer cover for Rodri at the Etihad Stadium. Thus, Guardiola would be wise to keep hold of him for now as he could help Man City win some silverware in 2022. The best move for both Fernandinho and the Mancunian club would be to part ways with each other next summer when the player’s contract will come to an end.
