Manchester City midfielder Fernando has admitted that he has found it difficult to adjust to Premier League football since arriving at the club.
The Brazil international moved to the Etihad Stadium from Porto last summer for a fee believed to be in the region of £12m.
"It's really hard," the 27-year-old told the Daily Mail. "I haven't reached my level here yet and the language is a problem. The Premier League is very challenging.
"This season has gone okay, I think, but I'm hoping my next season will be a lot better."
Fernando has made 28 appearances in all competitions for City this season.