Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is optimistic that Fernandinho will extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium.
The veteran Brazilian will be out of contract in June but reports suggest he is willing to sign a new deal, and Guardiola sees no reason why that would not be the case.
“Of course I would like him to stay,” he said of Fernandinho, who joined City in 2013.
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“I am confident and I am delighted with our three and a half years together. He convinced me on day one.”
After a busy festive league schedule, City’s attention turns to the FA Cup this weekend and a visit from League Two Port Vale in the third round.
Despite the gulf between the two teams, Guardiola insists he is not taking the match lightly.
He said: “It is a knockout game. Anything can happen. The schedule has been incredible so to not travel and play at home will be a big advantage. We take every competition seriously.”
On the fitness front, Guardiola says goalkeeper Ederson is on the mend after missing the New Year’s Day win over Everton through illness.
“Ederson was sick, he woke on the day of the (Everton) game very bad,” the managed explained.
“He trained today and feels better. Nico (Otamendi) is not available tomorrow but getting better. John (Stones) is coming back.”