Manchester City hero Fernandinho to return to Athletico Paranaense, where Brazilian's career started

Manchester City legend Fernandinho is reportedly linking back up with Athletico Paranaense, where the Brazilian started his illustrious career.

Fernandinho joined City in 2013 for £34million and became an integral part of the dominant team that won five Premier League titles.

The defensive midfielder took over the role of club captain in 2020 after the departure of David Silva.

After leaving the Citizens at the end of last season after nine successful years, journalist Fabrizio Romano has said on Twitter that Fernandinho is joining Athletico Paranaense on a two-year deal.

Fernandinho started his career at Paranaense, making 72 appearances and scoring 14 goals between 2002 and 2005.

He then joined Ukranian side Shakhtar Donetsk, before making his way to England eight years later.

Fernandinho made 264 appearances for City, scoring 20 goals for the club, as well as notably picking up 53 yellow cards and 4 red cards in the Premier League.

While City boss Pep Guardiola is likely to miss his tough tackling, City are looking to fill the gap quickly, most likely with Kalvin Phillips, as a £45m deal for the Leeds player looks imminent.

Now 37, Fernandinho is going back to his roots and joining top-flight Athletico Paranaense, based in the city of Curitiba, in the Brazilian state where the star was born.

They currently sit third in the Brazilian Serie A, under the leadership of former Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari and captain Thiago Heleno.