Fernandinho's Role Reportedly Could Change at Manchester City with New Contract

Manchester City believe Fernandinho could have a non-playing future at the club after he retires from football, per James Robson for Manchester Evening News. 

The Brazil international, who signed a new two-year contract in January, has long been identified by manager Pep Guardiola as a potential coach or manager. Fernandinho is seen as a leader in the dressing room and a key figure off the pitch.

Man City appear to have begun to emulate the Barcelona model of promoting from within and training up their own coaching staff with a common set of tactical beliefs, using Guardiola's aesthetic as a template. Their sporting director Txiki Begiristain, who held the same role at Barca, previously gave Patrick Vieira a job in City's youth academy before he took over Man City's sister club, New York City FC. Vieira is implementing a similar system to Guardiola's with a potential view to one day succeeding the Catalan.

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Although Fernandinho's precise role has not been reported, the 32-year-old has plenty of time to think about his next move. He has started 27 of City's 30 Premier League matches this season and is considered the linchpin of Guardiola's team, meaning his next two years should involve lots of first-team action.

Fernandinho may not get much mainstream attention, but inside the Etihad his contribution is valued. Kevin de Bruyne last year referred to the midfielder as "one of the best holding midfielders I've ever played with," per David Clayton for Man City's official website, words echoed by manager Guardiola in November 2017, in a separate report by Clayton.

However, Guardiola is reportedly searching for a long-term successor to Fernandinho and is ready to make a purchase this summer. Julian Weigl of Borussia Dortmund is a potential recruit.

Considering City are making plans for Fernandinho's post-playing days despite his career lasting at least two more seasons, it looks as though the club are very keen on ensuring he sticks around. City's seemingly rigorous planning also suggests they are aiming to create a long-term, Barcelona-inspired ethos among backroom staff.