Pep Guardiola believes his brilliant Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho can extend his Manchester City career by moving back to central defense on a permanent basis as he ages.
His versatility has also seen him look increasingly effective on occasion at center-half, a role he performed so effectively in last weekend's comfortable 3-1 win over Arsenal.
Guardiola appeared to have gambled last week when he left England center-half John Stones on the bench and played Fernandinho in the heart of City's defense instead.
"But I discover a surprise for the opponents doing that and I know what is going to happen," the Spaniard added. "‘Why do you take a risk and leave £45 million ($58 million, 51 million euros) on the bench when he can play in that position?’ And I know that."
Since 2013, the reigning champions has finished an average 25 points behind the next season's winners and the last three defenses have been hugely unsuccessful.