Why Fernandinho is undoubtedly the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League
Is it possible to stop Manchester City? That is a question lingering in a number of football fans and pundits’ minds. The Cityzens are on the top of the table after beating derby rivals Manchester United last weekend.
Pep Guardiola’s men seem to step onto the field as if their win is assured already. All the players have stepped up their levels and are performing admirably for the Spanish manager. One player who continuously defies all the odds and maintains his high standards is midfielder Fernandinho.
The Brazilian is now 33 years old and looks barely fazed by his age. His fitness level is at its peak and his work rate is undeniably supreme. Guardiola has transformed the Brazilian from an orthodox deep-lying midfielder to an all-action football player.
Fernandinho might be sitting right in front of the defence in the middle of the park but the midfielder covers all the areas on the pitch. His defensive pressing and relentless running make him such a special footballer. Moreover, Guardiola has also given him the license to charge forward and distribute the ball.
The Brazilian was in supreme form against Manchester United at the weekend as he pinged the ball across the field and defended dutifully on the night. Though French winger Anthony Martial got on the scoresheet via a penalty, Fernandinho kept the Manchester United attacker at bay throughout the game.
He barely gave the former Monaco star any space and always shut him down before he could pull the trigger.
The Brazilian has made a total of 19 tackles in the league this season, averaging a tackle success rate of 79%. He has also made a whopping 71 recoveries and 30 clearances. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)
What makes Fernadinho even more indispensable is his ability to contribute to the attack under Pep Guardiola. The 33-year-old has picked up 1 goal and 2 assists in 12 league appearances this season.
Not even some forwards have managed to do so and yet, Fernandinho has. He scored 5 goals and 3 assists last season as well. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)
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Manchester City are definitely going to have a tough time worrying about a possible replacement for the Brazilian when his time comes. Since arriving in 2013, he has played a pivotal role at the club and has made a meteoric rise to become the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League.
The Brazilian will surely aim to pick up another league title in what could be his final season at the club.