Pep Guardiola let stunned as Manchester City captain Fernandinho announcing his intentions to leave the club in the summer.
The midfielder made his intentions clear ahead of City’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.
Last June, Fernandinho, 36, agreed to a one-year contract extension with City.
“No, I want to play consistently,” he answered when asked if he expected to be at Etihad Stadium next season.
Since joining City from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, Fernandinho has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, and six EFL Cups.
He has made 23 appearances for the club this season, but has only started six Premier League games as the club seeks to retain its crown.
Fernandinho continued: “I’ll return to Brazil. Which is the most important for me, I decided with my family.”
Guardiola, whose team leads Atletico Madrid 1-0 in the first leg, spoke to each player in the build-up to the game.
When asked about Fernandinho’s remarks, City manager Pep Guardiola stated, “I didn’t know it.” “We’ll see how things turn out at the end of the season. We have no idea what will happen.
“I’ve mentioned before how important Fernandinho is to me. We’ll see what happens, but in any case, I’ll speak with him.
“I’m not sure if it’s a family decision or if he simply wants more minutes than he’s gotten this season.
“Of course, I’ll speak with him, but in this situation, we’ll chat after the end of the season.”
Guardiola highlighted the role of club captain Fernandinho, saying: “I’m aware of what he’s done; behind my back, he manages many of our players and stars for the team’s good.
“For Manchester City, he is a fantastic player. There are some things that no one knows about, but I am well aware of what he has [done].
“I’ve stated many times that I want my guys to be happy. We’re going to play for him tomorrow and give him the best farewell possible by reaching the Champions League semi-finals and then attempting to progress once more.”
Following the press conference, Fernandinho said on social media that he was “100% honest and spontaneous” in his responses to the questions posed to him.
However, he added: “Anyone who knows me knows that I am completely honest when it comes to Manchester City and my role as team captain.
“My only concentration is on winning all of the trophies for which we are competing, and I will only discuss my future at the end of the season. Let’s keep moving forward!”
