Fernandinho: New Man City deal may come at ‘expense’ of future stars amid ‘massive’ claim – Mills
Danny Mills has suggested Manchester City could harm the development of future stars by handing Fernandinho a new contract.
The former City defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested keeping the 36-year-old would come at the “expense” of those coming through the system.
As reported by Brazilian news outlet Torcedores on Thursday (24 February), Pep Guardiola has given Txiki Begiristain the green light to negotiate a new deal with the midfielder.
Guardiola reportedly wants to incorporate Fernandinho onto his coaching staff in the future and so is keen to keep him on board.
The Brazilian’s current deal, signed last summer, runs until the end of the season.
However, Mills admitted it would not be a “massive issue” if the two parties cannot agree terms.
Mills told Football Insider’s Connor Whitley: “He hasn’t really played enough this season.
“Yes, he’s a fantastic servant but clearly Pep thinks he’s not quite right anymore for what they need.
“That’s maybe why he hasn’t played as much. I look at it and think: ‘Okay, if he’s not going to play that much, how much influence can he have?’
“Yes, obviously he’s a good pro but do you keep a good pro at the expense of what? Man City have got other players coming through that they’ll be looking to use in that setup.
“I don’t think it’s a massive issue if they can’t agree something.”
Fernandinho has played 20 times across all competitions for City this season.
However, he has only made six starts in the Premier League.
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