Al-Ittihad, a team from the Saudi Professional League, has approached Manchester City with an inquiry about their Brazilian goalkeeper, Ederson. The 30-year-old shot-stopper is reportedly considering leaving the Premier League for a move to the Middle East.
According to reports from The Mail, Al-Ittihad has offered £25 million for Ederson, but this amount is considered insufficient by Manchester City. The club values Ederson highly and is seeking at least double the offered amount, as they see him as a key player for the upcoming season.
Despite their desire to retain Ederson, Manchester City is aware that they may not be able to keep hold of him for much longer. Ederson is currently in the United States with manager Pep Guardiola and the rest of the team for their preseason preparations.
In the discussion of goalkeepers, it’s mentioned that Gianluigi Donnarumma, another high-profile goalkeeper, has some limitations in his game, particularly in possession. Donnarumma’s passing range is not as broad as that of a modern goalkeeper, and he has been caught off guard with the ball at his feet on several occasions.
For example, in a Champions League match during the second leg of the Round of 16, Donnarumma hesitated in possession, allowing Real Madrid to capitalize and open the scoring, even though Karim Benzema may have fouled him.
In contrast, Manchester City’s backup goalkeeper, Stefan Ortega, is praised for his composure in possession, passing ability, and shot-stopping skills. Unlike Donnarumma, Ortega is more accustomed to Pep Guardiola’s style of play and expectations. This familiarity with Guardiola’s system strengthens Ortega’s case as a potential replacement for Ederson if the Brazilian does indeed leave Manchester City.
While Ortega may not have the same profile as Donnarumma, his skill set and understanding of City’s tactical demands could make him a suitable successor to Ederson in the team’s goalkeeping lineup.
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