'Beautiful message' - Man City fans react as Fernandinho bids emotional farewell

After nine brilliant years in sky blue, Fernandinho is no longer a Manchester City player.

The club captain officially left City after his contract expired on 30 June and has returned to Brazil to rejoin his first club, Athletico Paranaense.

While Fernandinho confirmed back in April that he would be leaving City, the long notice period has not made his farewell any less emotional for the fans. That was clear to see on Thursday when the 37-year-old published a touching farewell letter on his social media channels.

"I hope one day when you remember me, you feel the same way that I'm feeling when writing this," the Brazilian wrote. "I can only say that I gave my very best and I would do it all again."

ALSO READ:'Your eternal captain' - Fernandinho pens poetic farewell letter to Man City fans as he returns to Brazil

He signed off the open letter with "my memories will last forever, your eternal captain, Fernandinho."

It was a touching gesture from a player who has played a crucial role in the most successful period in the club's history, and who has earned the hard-to-achieve status of honorary Mancunian among City fans. On Twitter, fans showed their appreciation for one of the best to ever do it.

@KevinP184: I have something in my eye

@MCFC1977: We already feel that way about you Dinho you filled out hearts with joy and immense pride watching you play for City giving your all every single time you pulled on that blue shirt. We love you and always will. Once a Blue Always a Blue

@SheikhMCI: Weeping. The greatest Brazilian to ever play in the PL. The privilege was all ours capitao. obrigado para sempre.

@TheRainbowStand: A phenomenal footballer. A joy to watch as a neutral. City fans are a bloody lucky bunch to have had you