Fernandinho has confirmed that he will not be extending his contract with Manchester City and will leave the club at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old, who has less than three months remaining on his current deal at the Etihad Stadium, has been a peripheral figure in Pep Guardiola's squad so far this season, starting 11 of his 23 appearances in all competitions.
Fernandinho came close to leaving the Citizens last year before deciding to extended his contract by a further 12 months, but the Brazilian has now revealed that he will be departing the club in the summer.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Wednesday's Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid, Fernandinho said: "I want to play. I will go back to Brazil, for sure. I've decided with my family, it's the most important for me."
When asked about his role at City this season, Fernandinho added: "The same as the last season, not playing much but being there for the players and helping where I can. Sometimes off the pitch and on the pitch.
"I'm still hoping (to play against Atletico), I'll be here every game and training session to be ready."
Following the departures of club legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva, Fernandinho was appointed as City's new captain ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.
Since joining from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, the midfielder has made a total of 373 appearances for the Citizens across all competitions, winning four Premier League titles, six EFL Cups and one FA Cup.
Oliver Thomas
