There is plenty of uncertainty around the goalkeeper position at Man City heading into next season.
Ederson has been the undisputed number one for Pep Guardiola over the last eight years, however, the Man City star looks certain to be leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer.
This will leave a massive hole to fill in City’s starting XI, as there are not many goalkeepers on the planet who are as good with the ball at their feet as the 31-year-old.
Stefan Ortega has filled in for Ederson over the last three years since joining Man City on a free transfer, and it is fair to say that the German has done so successfully, which was evident during the 2023/24 campaign.
With Guardiola looking to add a new goalkeeper to his squad this summer, how Ortega feels about his role in Manchester has now become known.
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Stefan Ortega wants to be Man City’s number one goalkeeper next season
Ortega has done his best to push Ederson for the number one spot at Man City and has succeeded at times, but ultimately, the Brazilian remained as the man between the sticks at the Etihad Stadium.
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With the 31-year-old set to leave the Manchester club this summer, Manchester Evening News reports that Ortega is seeking to be City’s number one goalkeeper heading into next season, despite Guardiola’s plans to sign a new shot-stopper.
Should a new player arrive, Ortega will very likely remain in his role as the number two goalkeeper, but having impressed when given opportunities, the 32-year-old will be confident of winning the battle for at least one season.
Man City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, described Ortega via the BBC as “the best number two goalkeeper we’ve ever had,” when the German signed his new contract last summer until 2026.
The Premier League club’s fans all love Ortega; however, they will be keen to see their club sign a new number one this summer.
The latest on Man City’s search for a new goalkeeper
Man City are fully focused on adding to their midfield ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup as the Premier League club are closing in on AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, therefore, it has been quiet on the goalkeeper front recently.
It has been reported that Man City’s top target is Espanyol’s Joan Garcia; however, the Spaniard has hinted that he would like to remain in La Liga, as Barcelona are also in the race for the 24-year-old.
Photo by Elianton/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Photo by Elianton/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Therefore, Porto’s Diogo Costa is Ederson’s most likely replacement as the Portuguese goalkeeper has already given the green light to a move to Manchester.
The Premier League giants are still pursuing the 25-year-old, and only time will tell if City make an official move for the Porto star before the new season gets underway.