Mario Fernandez called the reason why he did not return to CSKA

Zenit newcomer Mario Fernandez released a statement explaining why he could not return to CSKA.

The Brazilian footballer played for the Moscow team from 2012 to 2022. Last summer he suspended his career and contract with the army team, and in January 2023 he resumed playing for Internacional. In April of the same year, the 32-year-old player terminated his agreement with the Brazilian club and became a free agent.

“In April, being a free agent, but having a financial clause in case of agreements with other clubs at Interacional, which had to be paid for a small amount, I immediately contacted CSKA, informing them and expressing my desire to return to the club . CSKA, having learned of the clause, objected, stating that it did not agree with this amount and did not want to pay the full amount of the fine, suggesting that I pay part of the settlement out of my own pocket. I thought it was unfair, as I had previously turned down a two-year contract with CSKA. The negotiation went on for about two months of contacts, after which the company decided to interrupt the negotiation with me. Then Zenit came to me. But even so, CSKA did not want to pay the low cost of a point for my transfer, ”the Brazilian said, citing the championship.

During his career at CSKA, Fernandez played 329 matches, scored 11 goals and provided 47 assists. As a red and blue footballer, the defender became the champion of Russia three times, the winner of the country’s Super Cup twice, and also won the Cup once.