Fernandinho has signed a one year contract extension to stay at the Etihad with Manchester City until the summer of 2021.
The veteran Brazilian international, 34, has usually played in a holding midfield role under City boss Pep Guardiola but has been used in defence this season during Aymeric Laporte’s lengthy spell out injured.
Since joining the Club in 2013, Fernandinho has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell in Manchester.
He has won three Premier League titles, four League Cups, one FA Cup and two Community Shields, while enjoying international success in the 2019 Copa America.
With Vincent Kompany’s exit last summer to be followed by David Silva’s departure from the Etihad this summer it was important that City retain a player with the experience of Fernandinho, especially with another club legend – Sergio Aguero – also likely to leave the club in 2021.
Fernandinho tribute to Manchester City fans as he signs new contract
Celebrating his new deal, Fernandinho said: “This is the best possible news.
“I want to take this opportunity to put on record how grateful I am to my teammates and the backroom staff here at City.
“Without them, this deal would not be possible, so sincere thanks to every single one of them.
“I have enjoyed every second of my time at City.
I never expected to build such a meaningful relationship with the Club and the fans, but it has happened, and I am grateful every single day.
“Our fans are unbelievable; I am so happy that I will continue to play for them a year longer. I feel their love and passion and it genuinely helps keep me driven.
“My focus now is on making sure we continue to be successful.
“My time here has been decorated by silverware, but under Pep’s guidance we have really accelerated. I want that to carry on for as long as possible.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “This new deal reflects Fernandinho’s quality and commitment.
“He is not only a first-class professional and one of the best players in world football, he is a fantastic person who leads by example every single day.
“We have a talented young squad – but making sure they are supplemented by senior players of Fernandinho’s ilk is of paramount importance.
“What he brings in terms of leadership and professionalism is valued by everyone at the football club.
“He is a player with outstanding technical quality, and his appreciation of the game allows him to play multiple positions.
“He is also a player without ego, someone who values his teammates and recognises the importance of the squad.”