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Manchester City manager explained how they kept a player who was set on leaving.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has revealed that the prospect of Ederson leaving the club in the summer put him in an uncomfortable situation. He also revealed the factor that proved a stumbling block for what seemed like a certain exit.
Ederson’s reported exit from Man City
The Brazilian shot-stopper was intently linked with a move away from Manchester City to join Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr and the player was believed to be keen on the money.
Ederson was reportedly unhappy with the plaudits second-choice goalkeeper Stefan Ortega got at his expense, following his heroics against Tottenham in the wake of the Brazilian's injury, which effectively helped Manchester City win the Premier League.
The former Benfica goalkeeper did not appreciate being maligned, according to reports; hence, the big-money proposal was more amenable to him.
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What Guardiola said
The Manchester City boss, speaking recently, confirmed that there was indeed a viable prospect of the 31-year-old leaving the club last summer. However, he revealed that an offer worthy of the player's status did not come in; hence, they could not allow him leave.
"We didn't want Ederson to leave in the summer,” Pep said, per Fabrizio Romano. “A real offer didn't come... Well, they 've made an offer but the keeper for the team who won four Premier Leagues in a row has a price. Otherwise, he can't leave! And that's what basically happened.”
Pep also expressed his excitement at keeping Ederson, explaining that he was worried about losing him.
"Of course, I was worried about Ederson leaving! He’s an important figure in our team... we're lucky to have him.”
"Hopefully he’s happy. Always you prepare; you never know what happens, whether players want to leave or not.”
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