Amid the fallout from the European Super League, Manchester City's midweek win against Aston Villa was overshadowed.
Despite Fernandinho being substituted on for Riyad Mahrez in the 90th-minute at Villa Park, the Brazilian insisted on shouldering the responsibility of facing the post-match media which is almost unheard of in such circumstances.
As the Blues' club captain, Fernandinho wanted to speak on behalf of the City players on the Super League proposals and he was rewarded with an embrace from Pep Guardiola after conducting his interviews.
Guardiola had previously refused to call the plans sport and was clearly proud of Fernandinho's leadership.
The 35-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career at City since joining in 2013 for a fee of around £30m, delivering consistently excellent performances in defensive midfield and his longevity is equally as impressive as his qualities away from the field.
It's well known Fernandinho is an important figure in the City dressing room, but now Kyle Walker, speaking to the The Players' Tribune, has explained his role.
“I think it’s important for it to be circular [the dressing room], you see everything, you see the big picture and you see your teammates, it’s a great way to feel like a family rather than individuals," Walker said.
“You look around and everyone’s so different. You have some that are doing their hair or looking after themselves, then you’ve got Dinho, who’s very vocal.
"He’ll be cheering us up, getting us ready for the game and what’s about to happen when we get onto the pitch."
