Manchester City Captain Fernandinho Announces His Exit From The Club

Manchester City captain Fernandinho has announced his plans to leave the English club at the end of the season.

The 36-year-old former Brazil international, who has won four Premier League titles since joining City from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, revealed his intentions at a pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg away to Atletico Madrid.

Fernandinho was asked if he would like to extend his stay at the Etihad for another year, replied: “No, I want to play regularly. I will go back to Brazil. I decided with my family, which is the most important for me.”

Guardiola was shocked by Fernandinho’s announcement.

Fernandinho made his last start for English title-holders and table-toppers City in the home Champions League tie against Sporting in early March, but Guardiola made it know that his club captain remained an important figure.

“The role he plays this season – I like the people who behave behind the scenes,” he explained.

“I know what he has done, behind me, he handles many of our players and stars for the benefit of the team”.