It was another frustrating night in Europe for Manchester City, as they were defeated 2-1 by Juventus, at home.
Last season’s UEFA Champions League runners up came into the contest out of form, but gave a mature, experienced performance to seal a vital win.
Despite City’s disappointment, one man who can be satisfied with his contributions on the night is midfielder Fernandinho.
The Brazil international started in a midfield duo alongside Yaya Toure and was assured throughout the contest.
City have been criticised in the past for lacking balance in the middle of the park, but between Fernandinho and Toure, they got it about right.
The former managed to co-exist as both an attacking and defensive midfielder and showed a particular penchant for getting forward in the first half.
He was afforded two attempts on goal from range and though neither were on target and thus didn’t trouble Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, they were still respectable efforts.
While Toure occasionally struggled to combat France international Paul Pogba, Fernandinho came out of their respective duels with some credit and was often able to hold his ground.
As the game grew into the second half, he did however, struggle at times to close off fellow Brazilian Hernanes, who subsequently was able to influence the game more forcefully.
This aside, Fernandinho had a strong evening and continues to establish himself as one of City’s regular starters.
