City recruit Fernandinho from Shakhtar
Thursday, June 6, 2013
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After eight seasons with FC Shakhtar Donetsk, midfielder Fernandinho has left the Ukrainian champions for Manchester City FC in a transfer said by the Pitmen to be worth €40m.
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Manchester City FC have announced FC Shakhtar Donetsk defensive midfielder Fernandinho as their first signing of the summer.
City, yet to appoint a manager following the departure last month of Roberto Mancini, have not revealed the transfer fee or length of contract the 28-year-old has agreed. However, a statement released by Shakhtar says the Brazilian international has cost the English club €40m.
Speaking to the City website, Fernandinho, who will wear the No25 shirt, said: "This is a change, a challenge and a chance that I have been waiting a long time for. Playing in the Premier League for City is like a dream. My ambition here is to win all the titles. The team here is strong and so is the greatness of the club and the supporters."
Fernandinho will offer his new employers a wealth of UEFA Champions League experience, having appeared in 30 matches, group stage onwards, for the Pitmen in Europe's premier club competition.
He joined the Ukrainian champions in 2005 from CA Paranaense in his homeland and went on to amass an impressive haul of silverware including six league titles, four domestic cups and the 2009 UEFA Cup.
"Ferna is not just a high-class player, but also a wonderful person with a big heart and open soul," continued the Shakhtar statement. "Thank you and good luck at your new club."