Pep Guardiola admits Ederson was close to Manchester City summer exit - 'We are lucky to have him'
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Updated 07/10/2024 at 18:17 GMT+1
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It could have been all change in the Manchester City goal this season if Ederson had secured a move to the Saudi Pro League, following summer interest in the Brazilian. However, according to Pep Guardiola, no deal materialised as City refused to budge on their asking price. Guardiola has admitted his relief the club were able to hang on to their No. 1.
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Video credit: SNTV
Pep Guardiola has revealed Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson only remained at the club over the summer because a transfer fee could not be agreed.
The Brazilian was linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, with Al Nassr and Al Ittihad both reportedly keen on his services.
However, speaking to the official City website, Guardiola expressed his joy at keeping hold of the player, admitting they are "lucky" to still have him on their books.
“He is an important figure with our team,” Guardiola said. “We are lucky to have him and I hope he is happy.
“Eddy knows us really well and what we have to do.
“He knew from day one that I didn’t want him to leave. The truth is the offer didn’t come. The real offer.
“They make an offer but the 'keeper who won four Premier Leagues in a row, he has a value and a price. Otherwise he cannot leave.
“If the offer did come, maybe he should not be here. This is the truth.
“Ederson is so strong but when he changed his mind, in one second he said he is here and he is going to do his best.”
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Ederson arrived at the Etihad Stadium from Benfica in 2017, and starred as the club’s established No. 1 during an unprecedented period of success.
During his time in Manchester, the club have lifted six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League as part of a historic treble in 2023.
City also won the Club World Cup later that year.
Injuries towards the end of last season meant Guardiola was forced to call on Ederson's understudy between the sticks in Stefan Ortega, who impressed en route to another league title.
The City boss is pleased to have two quality goalkeepers at his disposal and believes competition will drive both players to improve.
“Stefan is exceptional,” Guardiola added. “And Ederson has the feeling he has to perform well otherwise Stefan can play.
“This competition they have because they have respect, and healthy relationship makes our team better.”
Ederson made some vital saves in City's weekend win over Fulham, and also came in for admiration from goalscorer Jeremy Doku.
“I don’t think there’s any doubts about how good he is as a 'keeper,” said Doku.
“He’s saved us a lot, not only in this game. But he’s always there to help us, even with the ball.
“He’s a very reliable goalkeeper, as I should say.”
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