Pep Guardiola will have a friendly discussion with Fernandinho about whether to extend the Manchester City captain’s contract for another year.
The City manager paid a glowing tribute to the veteran midfielder, who turns 36 in May and whose deal expires at the end of the season.
Fernandinho, who is in his eighth season at City, is no longer a first choice but has excelled when used of late, scoring in the 2-0 League Cup semi-final win over Manchester United and playing well against Sheffield United on Saturday.
“We will talk as a friend. You cannot imagine the respect I have for him," Guardiola said. "It’s something that is special for me, not only on the pitch but also off, thinking what’s best for the team. All the time you can count on him.”
Fernandinho was voted captain by his fellow players after David Silva left, but Guardiola endorsed their choice and praised the Brazilian for teaching Rodri his role in midfield.
“He leads this group and I am very satisfied he was chosen as our captain," the Catalan said. "Magnificent. All the nice things that happen are well deserved. He’s made an incredible performance, doing the uncomfortable things. He’s an example for Rodri who will be the holding mid for many years here.
“He knows perfectly his role. He cannot play three games a week like Rodri. Always he has the feet on the ground and that’s the best we can get as a group, feet on the ground all the time. That’s why when he plays he’s played good.”
Guardiola was also delighted with Bernardo Silva's performance on Saturday. The Portuguese has been in fine form, delivering a terrific display in the 3-1 win at Chelsea and opening his account for the season with a two goals against Birmingham City and then the opener against Aston Villa.
Guardiola said the midfielder had endured a difficult time last year after being charged and banned by the FA for a tweet to teammate Benjamin Mendy.
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“It was a tough period for him, when he was being accused of something he’s not,” said the City manager. “It was so hurtful for him. He showed his humility in the bad moments. He struggled mentally. Still I cannot understand it. I am delighted he’s back, he can do everything. What a competitor: he had an incredible game. He is another top player who always does the service of the team.”
Since the Football League was founded in 1888, City became the first team to record nine wins in all competitions in a January.
If their record is partly the product of a crowded fixture list, Guardiola believes his players deserve credit for their consistency, especially in difficult circumstances and after playing eight matches the previous month.
“Absolutely, we know how tough January was after December,” he said. “We cannot express ourselves by going to restaurants. To achieve this is quite remarkable, I didn’t expect it. I said to the players we’ve finished the first leg, it’s remarkable what you’ve done and now keep going. Now go home and rest and prepare for Burnley.”
