Man City legend Fernandinho has confirmed he wants to leave at the end of the season after nearly a decade at the club – but manager Pep Guardiola was unaware of the news
Pep Guardiola was left stunned after a reporter pointed out Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho would be leaving at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old revealed his plans to leave the Etihad in the summer before City’s Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash with Atletico Madrid. But the news had yet to reach Guardiola.
He appeared shocked at his midfield general’s decision to part ways, having been asked by a reporter: “Fernandinho has just said he’s leaving at the end of the season, when did you find out about that and how disappointing is it that he’s not staying on?”
The manager asked for clarification before the reporter reiterated: “Fernandinho is LEAVING at the end of the season.”
Guardiola replied with a bewildered look: “Oh. I didn’t know it. You gave me the news. I didn’t know it,” before adding “We will see what happens at the end of the season. Fernandinho is so important for me. I will talk to him.”
The Brazilian signed a one-year contract with City last June after an illustrious career with the club which has included four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and six EFL Cups since 2013. But Fernandinho has made just six starts in 23 appearances this season.
He explained when asked if he will still be at the Etihad next season: “No, I want to play regularly. I will go back to Brazil. I decided with my family, which is the most important thing for me.”
Fernandinho should stay guys