Another game, another victory for Manchester City Football Club.
Yesterday’s 1-0 win over Arsenal was the 18th in a row in all competitions, and although only Raheem Sterling’s header proved the difference in the end, it was another comfortable day at the office.
City barely conceded a chance at the Emirates Stadium, with Ruben Dias and John Stones both imperious once again.
But someone else who was outstanding in north London, was veteran Fernandinho.
The Brazilian was drafted in for his 12th Premier League appearance of the season to give Rodri a rest – and it was a truly exceptional performance from the defensive midfielder.
According to Sofascore, he won 7/12 duels, made four clearances, two interceptions, three tackles, and also had a pass accuracy of 84%.
His display was lapped up on social media by fans of all clubs, and Pep Guardiola said after the game that he would ‘always remember’ the enforcer (via mancity.com).
His latest top performance for City comes amid continued speculation about his future.
As things currently stand, £30 million signing Fernandinho (BBC Sport) is leaving the club as a free agent in the summer – but surely the club have got to make tracks on an extension.
Fernandinho still at the top of his game
City officials have simply got to hand Fernandinho another year at the Etihad Stadium.
He might be 35, but his advancing years clearly aren’t affecting him.
The man’s remarkable game intelligence allows him to get in the correct positions without needing to exert himself as much as other players, who don’t have the same nous.
It has to be said, he is being managed fantastically well.
Rodri is playing the bulk of the games at holding midfield now for Manchester City, which allows the seasoned Fernandinho to get the rest in that he needs.
Such a plan allows him to maintain his longevity, and there’s no reason why one of the club’s greatest-ever signings can’t play one more year for the Citizens.
