Fernandinho says he has done everything that he wanted to do at Manchester City as the club mark the final weekend of the season with a lasting tribute to him. After nine years in England that have seen him set the record for the most Premier League appearances by a Brazilian and play a number of different roles under the best manager in the world in Guardiola, Fernandinho did not need too long to sum up his feelings about his achievements at City.
Pep Guardiola said: “I think one word I can describe it: proud. Since the first day, the intention was to win trophies and then we did it. The whole group, the whole team and the whole staff were involved and when I look back, I feel really proud. Everything I planned, we did here.”
Asked about his best performances in a City shirt,
Fernandinho said: “I would say maybe when we won the league in 2018. That season was really, really nice. I was in good shape and after the season we won the league again and we made it back-to-back for the first time in ten years. Those two seasons I was feeling really good and the team was playing really good. I would say both of those seasons. Obviously, every title we win is so important, but those two are special.”
One of the roles where Fernandinho has thrived as been as club captain over the last two years. While the midfielder may not have played as much as he would have liked in this time, his ability to look after the squad has been invaluable to Guardiola. His influence on the academy has been huge too, with countless youngsters citing the welcoming approach of the veteran when they have stepped up to first team training. Becoming captain didn’t necessarily change the way Fernandinho behaved, but he was honoured to be asked to follow on from other club greats.
Fernandinho said: “I always say, the captains don’t necessarily have to wear the armband. The way I behaved for all of these years, I think I was one of the guys who was always in front of the group, trying to protect and help them the best way I could. Obviously when Vinnie went and then David, the players and the staff chose me to be the captain. It was an honour and privilege for me and it is good to be in this position. That is why I have got a lot of grey hairs now! I think the position itself, you are already under pressure. Especially after two legends [Vinnie and David]. They have been winners and legends for this club. They were the captains and it was a big responsibility. But for me, it was alright and I knew I was ready for that role. It is a really enjoyable moment for me.”
