‘Wouldn’t mind it either’, ‘Pep knows better’ – Man City fans react as Guardiola would ‘love’ the Club to keep ‘incredible’ star

Pep Guardiola has revealed he would ‘love’ club captain Fernandinho to stay for one more season, with the Brazilian’s contract set to expire in May.

An indisputable fact remains that ever since Fernandinho’s arrival at Manchester City in 2013, the Brazilian has rightly etched his name as one of the Premier League’s greatest ever defensive midfielders.

The 36-year-old Brazilian midfielder, who has spent the last eight and a half years with the Citizens, signed a one-year contract extension in the summer, which is due to expire in June 2022.

While the ageing midfielder may be past his unparalleled best, he continues to remain a stellar operator,

The intelligent defensive midfielder will turn 37 in May, which falls one month before his contract expires. There has long been a feeling that Fernandinho will move into coaching after his career ends. But if Guardiola has his way, that won’t be just yet.

Asked if he would like Fernandinho to continue his playing career into a 10th season with City, Guardiola replied: “I would love it.

“I am so glad to have him. He is an incredible player and captain. At the beginning of the season, at 36, he struggled a little bit after the holidays to find his rhythm, but now I have the feeling he is getting better.

“For him he doesn’t care, he will play against Peterborough. Other players his age wouldn’t want to play in the cold weather, but he wants to help to give rest to Rodri.

“At the end of the season we will decide [on his future].”

These Guardiola’s comments were shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“So another season of Rodri having no competition. Rodri becomes way to complacent just like walker did when there was lack of competition.”
Credit: @pep_mind

“Wrong decision unless we are also planning to sign a player to challenge Rodri.”
Credit: @blueranger99

“Am sure it’s not mostly about Playing but the leadership role he is offering to both young and experienced players. Even ederson has confirmed his importance behind the scenes. So crucial..”
Credit: @philipaa47

“Not as player though.”
Credit: @kdb17fan

“His legs are done.”
Credit: @ElUnicoB1

“Pep knows better than all of us.”
Credit: @rmhoek

“Give him the papers already. He has been phenomenal over the years.”
Credit: @MutabaniWaLwasa

“Wouldn’t mind it either.”
Credit: @BenjyCG

“How after 9 years amazing service as captain and player you lot want him gone. He can still pass well, he’ll be great for the youngsters, great around the club, shameful that some happily want rid… never let’s us down.”
Credit: @davidpeterlee24