Former Manchester City captain Fernandinho could make a surprise future return to the Etihad Stadium.

The 39-year-old departed the Etihad Stadium in 2022, but has continued his playing career in Brazil with Club Athletico Paranaense, where the midfielder has made 25 appearances across three competitions so far this year.

Fernandinho has been directly involved in 11 goals for the Brazilian outfit, who are currently five points off the top of the Serie A table, and two points behind Manchester City's sister-club Esporte Club Bahia.

The midfielder returned to South America after a decorated nine-year spell in east Manchester, where Fernandinho made over 380 appearances and won 13 trophies, including five Premier League titles.

The Brazilian captained the Sky Blues to silverware success under Guardiola, with the midfielder making 244 appearances for Manchester City under the management of the Catalan coach.

Fernandinho made his Manchester City debut against Newcastle United in 2013, and concluded his City career with a dramatic Premier League title triumph against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium in May 2022.

Only 16 players have made more appearances for Manchester City, with the 39-year-old having famously waived around PS4 million to secure a transfer to the Premier League from Shakhtar Donetsk.

The midfielder continues his playing career in Brazil, but could reportedly consider a return to England and Manchester City in the future, with Etihad bosses having previously handed ambassadorial roles to a number of former players.

According to the information of Manchester City insider 'Tolmie's Hairdoo' on X, the midfielder has not ruled out returning to Manchester City in a 'high-level capacity' in the future, despite 'loving' life back home in Brazil.

Former Manchester City players have continued their careers within football following retirement, with Vincent Kompany appointed Bayern Munich manager this summer, five years after leaving the Etihad Stadium to pursue management.

The Belgian has previously managed RSC Anderlecht and Burnley, prior to taking over from Thomas Tuchel at the Allianz Arena.