(Football news) Manchester City captain Fernandinho announced his intention to leave the club after the end of the season, ahead of his team’s Champions League match against Atletico Madrid. The Brazilian has played more than 370 games for City in all competitions but is unlikely to extend his stay beyond his current 10th season in England. The former Brazil international signed a one year contract extension in June and has enjoyed an illustrious career in the blue half of Manchester, winning four Premier League titles and six League Cup trophies.
When asked if he intends to leave Manchester City in the summer, Fernandinho said “Yes, I want to play. I want to play regularly. I will go back to Brazil. I decided with my family, which is the most important for me." Later, Fernandinho issued a statement on Twitter which said “I was 100 percent honest and spontaneous in answering that question at today's press conference. But anyone who knows me also knows that my greatest honesty is with Man City and my duties as team captain. My focus is 100 percent on winning all the titles we are playing for and I will only talk about my future at the end of the season. Let's keep pushing!”
Surprisingly, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was unaware of Fernandinho’s decision and was shocked when he was told the news. Guardiola said “Oh! I didn't know. You give me the news. I didn't hear it. We will see what happens. I don't know what will happen. He is so important. I'll ask him." At the end of the season we talk, maybe it's because of his family. I would love it. We will talk. The role he plays this season – I like the people who behave behind the scenes. I know what he has done, behind me, he handles many of our players and stars for the benefit of the team. "I praised him and he was here when I arrived. Raheem (Sterling), Kevin (De Bruyne), John (Stones), a few players. We have known him well, from day one to now. An incredible player for Man City. There are things nobody knows but I know exactly."
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