It’s a win for the fans, says Dinho after ESL U-turn
FERNANDINHO has called City’s decision to pull out of the European Super League a ‘win for football fans.’
The Blues were the first of the 12 founder members to announce their decision to withdraw from the breakaway league after nationwide uproar.
And the City skipper admitted after last night’s 2-1 win at Aston Villa it has been a difficult few days for the player.
“Well, it’s been crazy. Since Saturday after the Chelsea defeat in the FA Cup semi-final, the guys were a little bit down,” said Fernandinho.
“This Super League came up, we were a little bit surprised, but in the end, I think it was the good sense and the right thing to do.
“I think everyone who loves football didn’t support the Super League, including our players and our club.
“We’re so happy now because everything has turned around. For sure, it was a little bit of a surprise for everyone.
“Of course, it was a tough situation. You just want to find out from the people at the top of the club to find out the reason they are there, together with the other clubs.
“We wanted to say that we were against it, but we had a chat between the players and we all agreed to wait for the club and the statement.
“We are happy because football wins, football fans win.”
The Brazilian, meanwhile, was full of praise for Phil Foden after the 20-year-old was again key to a Blues win at Villa Park last night.
“I know him about five years now so since he was a little boy he’s been with us and shown his quality,” said Fernandinho. “No doubt about that.
“Of course he is really mature now and he is choosing better actions and today he scored.
“I’m so pleased and happy for
TWO City fixtures in May have been changed for TV coverage.
The Blues’ trip to Crystal Palace on May 1 will now take place at the earlier kick-off time of 12.30pm and will be shown live on BT Sport.
The following week, City welcome Chelsea to the Etihad Stadium in a game that now kicks-off at 5.30pm on Saturday May 8 and will be shown live on Sky Sports.
him because he’s a nice guy, a nice boy and he deserves the best in this life.”
And Blues boss Pep Guardiola was also quick to compliment Foden and pointed out how he is having much more of an impact on games.
“He’s growing. This guy is growing. He’s making steps every time he steps forward. His influence in our game is massive right now,” he said.
“He scored, provoked the three yellow cards, in the final third he created and ran a lot, so aggressive
with and without the ball. He’s becoming a serious player. There are guys that are 19, 20 years-old that are unstoppables and when they are 29, 30 they are not.
“The players mark what they are on the pitch and that dictates who they are.
“Phil right now is becoming such an important player, against Dortmund he scored a goal, the second one, the cross for the penalty the final goal in the last minute against Dortmund at home.
“His influence in the final third is so important. He can play wide, play inside. He’s so aggressive with the ball.”