Fernandinho wrote a poetic farewell to Manchester City fans on social media following his move to Athletico Paranaense.
Brazilian side Paranaense confirmed on Monday that an agreement is in place to re-sign Fernandinho, who previously spent three years with the club.
The 53-cap former Brazil international left Paranaense in 2005 to join Shakhtar Donetsk, before spending nine seasons with City, the last two as captain.
After making 383 appearances for City and winning 12 major honours, including five Premier League titles, Fernandinho retired at the end of the 2021-22 campaign.
And on the day his contract at the Etihad Stadium officially expired, Fernandinho took to Twitter to pay a moving tribute to everyone connected with City.
“I saw. I saw my proud family. I saw supporters who never forgot where they came from,” he posted in an open letter.
“I saw the beauty of being part of a winning team. I saw titles, superstars and geniuses. I saw an opportunity to achieve my dream.
“And then I realized. I realized the importance of everyone reading this letter. I realized that I had made the right choice, the best choice of my entire life.
“I hope one day, when you remember me, you will feel the same way I did when I write this.”
He added: “Athletes, coaches/coaches, laundry staff, kit managers, cleaners, concierge, security team, door staff, advisers, executives, cooks, managers, doctors, masseuses, physiotherapists, sports psychologists, team media, analysts, youth teams, charity teams…
“Apologies if I missed anyone, but you know who you are. Today is the last day of my contract with Manchester City.
“I can only say that I gave my best and would do it again. The story continues and after playing for nine years, I will become a strong supporter of Cityzen for many more titles and victories.
“I’m sure many more will come judging by the quality of all your daily work.”
Fernandinho signed the letter: “My memories will last forever. Thank you very much, your eternal captain.”
The 37-year-old previously revealed he had turned down numerous return offers at Paranaense, who are now managed by former Portugal and Brazil boss Luis Felipe Scolari.
