Manchester City legend Fernandinho rules out coaching position in wide-ranging interview

Fernandinho is firmly looking forward to life back in his native Brazil, following a glittering nine-year career with Manchester City.

The Brazilian midfielder began his career at Atletico Paranaense back in 2002, where he made a total of 72 appearances across a three-year period with the club, before moving to Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk - where he spent a further eight years.

It was from here where he then made his move to the Etihad Stadium, and would spend the next nine years of his career while also winning five Premier League titles.

During Fernandinho's time in England, the midfielder became a club idol and went on to become the Premier League's most decorated Brazilian.

Now back in Brazil where it all began, the veteran central midfielder is looking to give back to the club where it all began.

Athletico recently made it to the Copa Libertadores final, where they were unfortunately beaten by Brazilian rivals Flamengo in a narrow 1-0 defeat.

However, Manchester is never far from Fernandinho's mind.

“(Manchester) City is one of the few clubs I would sit down on the couch and watch play,” he told the Daily Mail in a recent interview.

He added, “The thing that makes them different is the work behind the cameras, with all the responsibility and commitment. I think they will continue to dominate English football.”

“The Premier League has a great deal of excellence. It is different there. Every stadium is full, which creates a different atmosphere. It has the audience, the interest and the social media,” he explained.

Fernandinho believes he has paved the way for Brazilian players in the Premier League.

“Gabriel Jesus is one example of it, '' he said.

“The more experienced players have to help the younger players when they get to a new county and a new language. He was always humble, always wanted to learn and gave his best on and off the field.”

The two Brazilians played together for five years at Manchester City before both departed for new challenges.

Fernandinho joined Athletico Paranaense in June after surprising City in a press conference, where he confirmed his plan to leave. However, since his return to Brazil, he has inspired his new club to new highs with his wealth of experience.

Fernandinho has made 11 appearances for Athletico thus far, including the Copa Libertadores semi-final, and his eyes are fixed on winning trophies for the Brazilian side.

“My most cherished memories at Manchester City were the titles,'' he explained.

“I can't tell you one single moment, because there were a lot. Unfortunately not the Champions League, but that's how life goes.”

Fernandinho was the main first-team star released upon the expiry of his contract

The 37-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the Brazilian club and is studying for qualifications in football management, perhaps looking at a future in roles such as a sporting director.

However he has not ruled out the idea of continuing his career into his early 40s, after his playing contract expires.

“I can’t say I will definitely retire when my contract with Athletico is done or that I will play for another year.”

He added, “To be honest, I don’t see myself as a coach. I am studying to learn more, to know more, especially football management.”

Fernandinho seems to be keeping his options open for his future but will be looking to keep his head down and win some trophies with the club where it all began.