Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims source close to Fernandinho insists he is still bitterly disappointed when he doesn’t play because he feels he has plenty to offer.
The Brazilian, 36, was named Man of the Match in the Champions League last-16 second leg stalemate with Sporting, as City comfortably progressed given their 5-0 lead from the first leg.
Fernandinho is out of contract at the end of the season, and there is yet to be confirmation of whether he or the club have decided on a new contract.
The Brazilian, who is no longer a starter week in, week out, have made 22 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side this season in all competitions.
While the ageing midfielder may be past his unparalleled best, he continues to remain a stellar operator, as showcased by his dominant display recently.
According to Sam Lee via The Athletic, source close to a senior Man City player says several squad members feel Fernandinho has been treated unfairly and should play more.
As per the report, they love him so much, but it is suggested that they feel bad he hasn’t been given chance to contribute more.
The report however states that there’s no complaining or sulking, just a private lament that a fine career is winding down.
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.
The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.
“It’s heartwarming to hear this. The togetherness of our squad is incredible.”
Credit: @bm_damo
“Hmm… Wondering who would leak something like this, what’s their agenda and if it’s even true, certainly as phrased here. I can see players, if asked, saying they’re sorry Ferna doesn’t play more. I find it extremely unlikely they’d say he’s been treated “unfairly”.”
Credit: @minksfootie
“Rodri has been unreal and we have to look towards the future. Although, Ferna is still top class himself.”
Credit: @NotReaIlySure
“It’s more unfair on Rodri if they feel like he doesn’t deserve his spot now. Love Ferna but his time as the main man is up now.”
Credit: @SxrgioSZN
“Strange, that, bc he has played quite a lot! Who’d be annoyed that a 37yo isn’t getting more match time?!.”
Credit: @LizTray
“Rodri is in the form of his life dinho is a legend but rodri has taken the mantle off him now it would be unfair to bench Rodri with the form hes in just to be sentimental to Dinho.”
Credit: @MCFCGabster
“Its like mahrez saga all over again, probably same source as well,so dont believe it.”
Credit: @CityJoul
“You have to understand, we love him. But Rodri is simply undroppable this season. Along with Bernardo 💙. I don’t blame Pep one bit.”
Credit: @_MMV_21
“Look at how well Rodri is doing! We can’t play Dinho for sentiment and start losing games. He’s too old, 1 game in 5 at most. Love him but we’re talking facts here and a manager can’t play just for sentiment.”
Credit: @Jacob4rmstrong
