City were in total control throughout Sunday’s 3-1 win over Manchester United, producing a performance that was both artistic and industrious.
The 33-year-old delivered one of his best games for the Club - but was typically humble afterwards, focusing on the quality of the team’s attack-minded players rather than his vital display at the base of City’s midfield that saw him continually disrupt United’s rhythm.
“I think the team played really well, particularly in the second half,” he said.
“We controlled the game, even when they scored a goal from the penalty spot. After that, they didn’t have any more chances to score a goal.
“We deserved the win because the guys up-front made an amazing job, created chances, got into the box and scored goals.
“It’s beautiful to watch and I’m sure our fans are so pleased with our performance.”
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Ilkay Gundogan scored City’s third, sidefooting home to finish off a remarkable 44-pass move that left United chasing shadows.
It was a brilliantly constructed goal that is likely to go down as one of the greatest in Manchester derby history.
Fernandinho says it’s the result of City’s hard-wired principles: a desire to pass the ball and move the opposition at all times.
“We always pass the ball and try to find players between the lines in the best position possible to attack the opponent,” he said.
“We ask the players to respect their position and keep their position because the ball will arrive.
“I think that has happened, especially in this case. We pass the ball and when you find space the guys accelerate the play, find some space inside the area and Gundo scored a marvellous goal.
“It made everyone happy.”
And at the other end, City continue to look rock solid, with John Stones and Aymeric Laporte once again impressing at the heart of defence.
It’s now just five goals conceded in the Premier League all season, with only one of those coming from open play.
Stones and Laporte have a blossoming understanding. Both are comfortable with the ball at their feet, and both are capable of aggressive, front-foot defending.
And with one left-footer and one right-footer, there’s wonderful balance to City’s backline, too.
United were restricted to a single shot on target on Sunday and Fernandinho has been impressed with the way their partnership has developed this season.
“It looks like they understand each other and that’s good because both of them have the quality to play with the ball and they have improved a lot without the ball as well,” he said.
“They anticipate the play, when they have to run back, when they have to cover each other.
“This is good for them and good for the team because when you have two centre-backs playing so well they give confidence to the rest of the team and the guys upfront feel that and they do an amazing job with the ball.”
