Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson had been subject to links with a move away from Etihad Stadium in the recently concluded summer transfer window, however, no move materialised and the Brazilian international stayed put with the Cityzens.
The player was subject to interest from the Middle East as Saudi Pro League duo Al Nassr and Al Ittihad had been linked with a move for the goalkeeper.
Although speaking after the game against Fulham at the weekend where the 31-year-old made some key saves to ensure that his side take away all the three points, Man City manager Pep Guardiola said he was glad that a respectable offer never arrived.
“He knew from day one I didn’t want it, we didn’t want it but the truth, I’m going to tell the truth, the offer didn’t come,” Guardiola said. “The real offer, because they make an offer, but to be for the keeper, for the team who won four Premier Leagues in a row, they have a value, you know, have a price. Otherwise, he cannot leave. This is the truth.”
Ederson has continued to keep his place as an undisputed starter at City despite Stefan Ortega breathing down his neck, and speaking about the situation, Pep continued:
“I said many times, how many years we are together? Eight years with Eddie? The success we had without him, I cannot visualise, I cannot.
“We are lucky to have him. Hopefully, he’s happy. Ederson is an important player, but I always had the feeling that Stefan is an exceptional player. And sometimes Ederson has to have the feeling that he has to perform well, otherwise Stefan can’t play. And this competition, a healthy competition they have — because they respect and they have an incredible relation — make our team better.”
Despite interest from Saudi clubs, Ederson stayed at Manchester City, with no serious offer materializing. Pep Guardiola expressed relief, emphasizing the goalkeeper’s value and importance to the team’s success.
