Former Manchester City icon Fernandinho breaks silence over potential coaching future
The hugely popular Brazilian midfielder spent nine years at the Etihad before heading back to his native Brazil last summer.
Plenty of Manchester City fans would love to see Fernandinho return to the club one day.
Given his advancing years, it would not be in a playing capacity but many have touted the Brazilian as a potential future coach at the Etihad.
After all, he has near-legendary status at City. He spent nine trophy-laden years there, winning five Premier League titles before calling time on his stay at the end of last season.
The 37-year-old returned to his native Brazil to sign a two-year contract with Athletico Paranaense - the club where he started his career.
Read more: Guardiola urges City to pile the pressure on title rivals
While the Brazilian midfielder is enjoying the return to his native country in a playing capacity, the question over what he will decide to do when he eventually hangs up his boots still lingers.
He has now spoken about how he is studying for qualifications in football management, but with an eye more on a future role as a sporting director rather than a head coach - something that will come as a disappointment to the City faithful.
Speaking to the Mail, he said: "I can’t say I will definitely retire when my contract with Athletico is done or that I will play for another year. To be honest, I don’t see myself as a coach. I am studying to learn more, to know more, especially football management."
He also spoke about how he loved his time at City, albeit with one regret.
He added: "My most cherished memories at Manchester City were the titles. I can't tell you one single moment, because there were a lot. Unfortunately not the Champions League, but that's how life goes."
Read more: