Manchester City Goalkeeper Dilemma: Ederson’s Future Amid Saudi Pro League Links
Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson has been linked with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League, raising questions about the club’s goalkeeping situation.
During a Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, Stefan Ortega, City’s number two goalkeeper, embraced his teammate Ederson as he was substituted. This moment highlights the growing intrigue surrounding the goalkeeper position at Manchester City as the summer transfer window approaches.
Stefan Ortega recently signed a new contract, suggesting that the 31-year-old German might anticipate more playing opportunities. Ortega impressed during his appearances last season, despite conceding a goal in the FA Cup final. His manager has even praised him as the best backup goalkeeper in the world.
Ortega may aspire to a starting role next season, especially with Ederson’s future uncertain amid transfer rumors. Our panel of writers weighs in on the current goalkeeping scenario at City.
For Pep Guardiola’s style of play, no goalkeeper is better suited than Ederson. Despite Ortega’s strong performances last season, losing Ederson would be a significant blow. Ederson’s contributions, including crucial saves in the Champions League final, are unforgettable. Given the potential for creating more memorable moments, Ederson should find it easy to reject the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia.
While Ederson might feel underappreciated due to the support Ortega received last season, he should acknowledge his own performance shortcomings and appreciate the club’s recent efforts to reaffirm his status as the number one keeper. Even when Ortega renewed his contract, sporting director Txiki Begiristain emphasized Ortega’s role as the backup.
Ederson could also be offered a new contract, making a commitment to stay at the top level more appealing than a step down. For City’s benefit, Ederson’s presence is crucial.
Although Ortega’s contract renewal provides some reassurance, the idea of Ederson leaving should not be considered unless his departure would prevent potential conflicts. Ortega’s high regard stems from his ability to push Ederson to maintain high standards, and vice versa. Removing one of these top-tier keepers could affect the performance of the other.
Ederson has revolutionized City’s playing style and played a key role in their Champions League victory. Guardiola and Begiristain recognize the importance of having an excellent backup to keep Ederson motivated. If Ederson’s performance declines, Ortega is ready to step in.
City invested around £30m in Ederson, a deal that has proven worthwhile. At 31 in August, he is still young for a goalkeeper. While recovering some money from a transfer would be beneficial, it is not essential. Ederson likely has at least two more years until the end of his contract, after which City can consider refreshing their goalkeeping lineup. There is no immediate need for an overhaul, and losing such an influential player unnecessarily would be a significant setback.
The decision seems straightforward: If Ederson wants to leave and a Saudi club offers a substantial fee, City should sell him. Ortega is capable of stepping up as the number one, and City could then invest in a younger goalkeeper for the future. However, if Ederson wishes to stay or the offer isn’t satisfactory, he should remain as the first choice.
Ortega, despite his excellent performances last season, isn’t at Ederson’s level and did make a notable error in the FA Cup final. Nevertheless, City would be in good hands with either keeper, allowing them to approach the situation with confidence.
Any speculation about Ederson losing his number one status is premature. Goalkeepers generally have longer careers than outfield players, and at 30, Ederson is far from being past his prime.
Ortega is an outstanding backup but not yet ready to be the first choice for a top-six club. His ability to perform without rustiness is commendable, as evidenced by his title-winning save against Tottenham. However, a full season is demanding, and Ortega might eventually seek more first-team opportunities despite his new contract. This move would be understandable given his performances.
