Manchester City: Star midfielder agrees contract extension?
34-year old Brazilian stalwart Fernandinho, who was out of contract at the end of the season, will remain in Manchester for at least one more year.
After months of rumors regarding whether or not 2019/20 would be Fernandinho’s final season for Manchester City, the Brazilian has been awarded a new contract to stay with the club through at least 2021.
Fernandinho has been massive for City this season given Aymeric Laporte’s long-term knee injury, as the natural midfielder was forced into an emergency center-back role for much of the campaign. He performed admirably in the position, and at times was arguably the club’s most steady defender.
Over the course of City’s last two Premier League title campaigns, Fernandinho was at the heart of the team, playing in defensive midfield and shielding the back four as the Blues racked up 198 points. As part of Pep Guardiola’s domestic treble-winning side last year, he was absolutely immense, but has been largely replaced in that position by record-signing Rodri, who has excelled so far this season.
More from Man City News
- Rodri believes City can have even more success this season
- Grealish, Stones, and Kovacic will NOT play tomorrow
- After Injury Guardiola is back in Etihad
- Humble Haaland Maintains Low Profile Leading Up to Ballon d’Or 2023
- Khadija Shaw and Erling Haaland nominated for NWF’s player of the season
With Laporte back in the fold, Fernandinho will either partner him or continue to provide competition and rest for Rodri in midfield. He remains a key part of this side, and I believe the club are wise to ensure that he remains. Although it was an emotional send-off, losing Vincent Kompany a year ago proved a massive blow to this season’s title chances, and City must do whatever is necessary to avoid making the same mistake, and this Fernandinho contract is low-risk and a good step to ensure stability and continuity.