Fernandinho is eager to work his way into Brazil’s World Cup squad, after securing a £34million move to Premier League runners-up Manchester City.
The 28-year-old arrived in Manchester on Wednesday for a medical and sent City’s summer spending beyond £50million, after the arrival of Jesus Navas.
And the former Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder, who has just five Brazil caps to his name, believes the move could be key for his international hopes.
“I believe my chances of making the World Cup squad will improve if I join City,” he said.
“My exposure would be better because Brazil is biased towards the Ukrainian league. What we do in the Ukraine is not recognised in my country.
“Therefore, playing in a division and at a club that are considered among the best in the world would help me to get back in to the national team.
“All my team-mates understand. They know that the Premier League is a great championship and that Manchester City are a great club.”
Fernandinho spent eight years at the Donbass Arena and caught City’s eye with a string of impressive Champions League performances this season.
He netted in a group game against Chelsea and helped the Ukranian side to the knockout stages, where they lost to eventual finalists Borussia Dortmund.
The midfielder will link up with the City squad and Manuel Pellegrini, who is expected to be confirmed as the new boss later this month.
Carlos Tevez may be headed the other way, after bookmakers slashed his odds of an Etihad Stadium exit, following interest from Juventus.
However, the Argentine striker’s representatives insisted nothing would be decided until he holds further talks with Pellegrini.
Image courtesy of UEFA, via YouTube, with thanks.
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