Pep Guardiola was left surprised when discovering that Manchester City captain Fernandinho intends to leave the club at the end of the season.
The 36-year-old revealed to the press, just moments before Guardiola sat down to speak to reporters, that he would not be extending his contract at the Etihad Stadium when it expires in June.
Guardiola admits that he had no idea that the veteran midfielder had decided to leave the club and he intends to hold talks with the Brazilian.
"Oh. I didn't know. You give me the news. I didn't hear it. We will see what happens. I don't know what will happen. He is so important. I'll ask him," Guardiola said at his press conference on Tuesday.
"At the end of the season we talk, maybe it's because of his family. I would love it. We will talk."
Guardiola has also spoken about Fernandinho's leadership qualities both on and off the pitch, and although his game time has been reduced in recent seasons, the Spaniard insists that the midfielder has been an important figure at the club behind the scenes.
"The role he plays this season – I like the people who behave behind the scenes," Guardiola added. "I know what he has done, behind me, he handles many of our players and stars for the benefit of the team.
"I praise him and he was here when I arrive. Raheem [Sterling], Kevin [De Bruyne], John [Stones], a few players. We know him well, from day one to now always here. An incredible player for Man City. There are things nobody knows but I know exactly.
"I said many times, I want him to be happy. We play tomorrow (against Atletico) for him. Give him the best farewell moment reaching the semi-finals, after try to go through.
"I understand, play with happiness, if he wants to play it's understandable. For players until 2023, if a player wants to leave I understand completely, look at Ferran Torres. I don't want anyone unsatisfied. For his age, for his family in Brazil. The club will help him."
Fernandinho has spent the last nine years with Man City, making 373 appearances across all competitions and winning 11 major trophies.
Oliver Thomas
