Former Man City Star Fernandinho Retires After Winning Five Premier League Titles
Fernandinho has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 40, ending a remarkable career that spanned more than two decades. The former Brazil international concludes his playing days after returning to Athletico Paranaense in 2022, drawing to a close one of the most decorated careers in Manchester City history.
A Career Built on Brilliance and Relentless Standards
Fernandinho spent nine seasons at Manchester City after moving from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, where he had already claimed six Ukrainian league titles and a UEFA Cup. Under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini and later Pep Guardiola, he became the backbone of City’s midfield. Known for his exceptional game reading, immaculate tackling, and positional intelligence, Fernandinho allowed creative talents around him to flourish.
Across 383 appearances for City, Fernandinho lifted five Premier League titles, six League Cups, an FA Cup, and a Community Shield, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s greatest midfielders.
A Fitting Final Chapter in Brazil
After leaving Manchester in 2022, Fernandinho returned to Athletico Paranaense, the club where he began his professional career. As playing time naturally declined, he hadn’t featured since December 2024. Speaking after a charity match, Fernandinho revealed:
“I’m already tired. I ran for 30-something minutes today and I’m exhausted. There’s nothing in football that motivates me anymore. I’ve achieved everything I could. Now it’s time to enjoy my family.”
He added that a new contract was not agreed upon:
“We didn’t reach an agreement for a new contract, and that’s the most natural thing in the world. I’ve never hidden my gratitude, my respect, and affection for Athletico, especially their fans.”
Guardiola Blindsided by Fernandinho’s Exit
Pep Guardiola admitted he was not initially informed of Fernandinho’s decision to leave City:
“I didn’t know it. You gave me the news. We will see what happens at the end of the season. I said many times we will see what happens. I said at the end of the season we will talk – maybe it is a family decision, maybe he wants more minutes. I would love to be with him.”
The City manager suggested sporting director Txiki Begiristain might have been aware:
“Maybe Txiki knows it and didn’t tell me. I don’t know. It is a surprise for me; I will say to him [Txiki]: ‘What happened?’ But I know his [Fernandinho’s] intentions. Another player would do it for his benefit. Knowing Ferna, it will not be this. I want the happiness of my players and we are going to play tomorrow for him and give him the best farewell moment.”
FAQ
Q: How many seasons did Fernandinho play for Manchester City?
A: He played nine seasons for City from 2013 to 2022.
Q: How many trophies did Fernandinho win at City?
A: Fernandinho won five Premier League titles, six League Cups, an FA Cup, and a Community Shield.
Q: When did Fernandinho officially retire?
A: Fernandinho retired in 2025 at the age of 40.
Conclusion
Fernandinho’s retirement marks the end of an era for Manchester City and Brazilian football. Renowned for his leadership, tactical intelligence, and consistency, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by fans and peers alike. Guardiola and the City squad have paid tribute to his remarkable contribution both on and off the pitch, ensuring the Brazilian midfielder receives a fitting farewell.
