Why a new deal for Fernandinho is the right move by Manchester City
According to Sky Sports, Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho has signed a one-year contract extension with the club. The extension will keep the Brazilian at the club until the summer of 2021, which will also mark his eighth season at the Etihad.
Fernandinho, 34, joined Manchester City from Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk. He spent eight years there since departing Brazilian team Athletico Paranaense. As a youngster, he emerged through Athletico’s youth ranks and subsequently paved the way for a move to Ukraine.
He went on to establish himself as a key member in City’s ranks and has been a consistent figure since 2013. He has featured in 299 games for the Cityzens over the years, scoring 23 goals and providing 25 assists – remarkable numbers for a deep-lying player.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s side have struggled this term, with injuries to key players like Leroy Sane and Aymeric Laporte. With arch-rivals Liverpool sitting firmly atop the Premier League standings, the Manchester outfit have fallen behind.
City are currently 2nd in the league table, 16 points behind Liverpool. However, in spite of all these circumstances, Fernandinho has proven himself as one of the most influential figures at the Etihad. He has played in several positions this season, often occupying the central defensive area in the absence of Laporte.
Rodri was brought in to provide cover but the former Atletico Madrid man hasn’t lived up to the expectations. As a result, City’s midfield is simply not the same when Fernandinho is deployed as a centre-back. That was evident in the game against Liverpool, where their midfield was completely outplayed by the reigning Club World Cup champions.
Therefore, City have made a fantastic move by extending the former Shakthar Donetsk man’s contract for another season.
The 34-year-old is a senior figure at the club and his experience speaks volumes. He has won three Premier League titles, four EFL Cups and one FA Cup in his seven years at the Etihad.
Verdict
At 34, the 53-cap Brazil international is still going strong and City have indeed taken a step in the right direction. His experience and versatility continue to be crucial for the English giants.
