Manchester City have officially announced on Tuesday that veteran goalkeeper Ederson has sealed a switch to Turkish giants Fenerbahce, bringing an era that started way back in 2017 to an end. The Brazilian stopper departs after eight years, having carved out a crucial role in Pep Guardiola’s system.
City celebrated Ederson as “one of the most successful players in the club’s history.” His signature distribution and calmness under pressure were tailor-made for Guardiola’s possession-football, although concerns over his shot-stopping increased in recent seasons.
In a farewell statement, Ederson stated:”Playing for City has been the most special time of my life and I will always be a fan of this club. I arrived full of hope and leave with a beautiful story.”
The 31-year-old is leaving with 372 appearances, 122 clean sheets, and an enviable tally of six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League.
Donnarumma Set for Etihad Switch
Ederson’s exit is a consequence of Manchester City’s pursuit of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who leaves Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old Italian global is set to arrive at Manchester City for €35 million (£30m/$41m) after being informed he was not needed in Paris despite being instrumental in PSG’s Champions League victory last season.
City already recalled James Trafford from Burnley at the start of the summer, but the young Englishman has yet to impress as Guardiola’s first choice. Donnarumma would bring established pedigree having won the Euro 2020 with Italy and proven himself as one of Europe’s top keepers since his early days at AC Milan.
A Strategic Switch for Guardiola
Guardiola has always prized the capacity of a goalkeeper to control play from the back. Ederson represented that mantra, but Donnarumma’s combination of shot-stopping and physicality might provide something else.
The move also demonstrates City’s planning ahead as they plan to stay competitive in their domestic league and within Europe. Donnarumma’s age profile indicates that he may be the anchor of the position for a decade, whereas Trafford will likely keep growing as a back-up choice.
Ederson’s Legacy at Manchester City
Ederson’s switch to Turkey could be the end of his Premier League career, but his legacy at City is certain. Aside from his medals, he transformed the position of the modern-day goalkeeper in England through his risk-free passing range and serenity under pressure.
City followers used social media to express their gratitude, with one entry stating: “From long balls to trophies, Ederson changed the way we view goalkeepers. Forever a legend.”
For Ederson, it is now getting used to Turkish football at Fenerbahce, where he will be needed to provide leadership and experience. For City, the attention is now on making Donnarumma settle in time and perform at the highest level as they seek more glory.
