Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that he is unsure about the future of his team’s goalkeeper Ederson, who was linked with a move away from the current Premier League champions during the summer transfer window. Ederson has spent the previous seven seasons at the Etihad Stadium, having joined from Benfica in 2017, making 332 appearances in all competitions and winning six domestic titles and the 2022/23 Champions League.
The 30-year-old Brazilian is currently a hot commodity in the Saudi Pro League, where clubs like Al Ahli and Al Ittihad are keen on a deal. Reports suggest that Manchester City won't block his exit if he decides it's the right move and a satisfactory offer is on the table.
After City fell 4-3 in a preseason clash with Celtic, Guardiola touched upon the uncertainty surrounding Ederson's future, admitting he'd love for the three-time Golden Glove recipient to remain. The former Spanish international noted, 'I don't know; he needs to think about his alternatives. Of course, I want him here, but it's in the hands of the clubs now. I've heard nothing new recently. For now, he'll keep training and stay with us until the deadline, and then we'll see how things shake out.'
Guardiola highlighted that Ederson has been the backbone of a team that achieved extraordinary success over the last seven or eight years. He praised the overall quality of his goalkeeping department, noting they have three fantastic keepers, particularly the two who see regular action. 'The goalkeeper is a vital role, and we have a great group there. We'll have to wait until the final day of the transfer window—anything can happen, not just with Ederson, but with several players,' he added.
While Stefan Ortega is widely considered the best deputy goalkeeper in the Premier League, City's goalkeeping situation will likely remain under the microscope until the season begins. With veteran Scott Carson having made only one league appearance in over a decade, the big question is whether a replacement for Ederson could truly match the Brazilian's impact on the game. This uncertainty is expected to be a major talking point throughout the coming months.
In other news, midfield star Kevin De Bruyne has hinted that a move to the Middle East might be in his future, especially with only one year remaining on his current deal. However, when Guardiola was asked about the Belgian's status, he was blunt and decisive, insisting that De Bruyne is not leaving this summer.