
Pep Guardiola explained that Éderson stayed at Manchester City this summer because no club was willing to meet their asking price for the goalkeeper.
Ederson attracted interest from both Al Nassr and Al Ittihad during the transfer window. However, after the Brazilian made several crucial saves in City’s 3-2 victory over Fulham on Saturday, Guardiola expressed relief that a suitable offer never materialized.
“He knew from day one that I didn’t want him to leave, and we didn’t want him to go. But the truth is, the real offer didn’t come,” Guardiola said. “They made an offer, but for a goalkeeper on a team that has won four Premier Leagues in a row, there’s a value and a price. Otherwise, he cannot leave. That’s the truth.”
Since joining from Benfica in 2017, Ederson has won six Premier League titles, been named to the PFA Premier League Team of the Year twice, and won the Premier League Golden Glove three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022.
Despite competition from Stefan Ortega, who signed a new contract over the summer, the 31-year-old has retained his position as City’s No. 1 this season.
“I’ve said many times, how many years have we been together? Eight years with Eddie? I can’t visualize the success we’ve had without him,” Guardiola said. “We’re lucky to have him. I hope he’s happy.”
Guardiola also highlighted the importance of healthy competition within the squad: “Ederson is an important player, but I’ve always felt that Stefan is exceptional. Sometimes, Ederson needs to know that he has to perform well; otherwise, Stefan can play. This healthy competition they have—because they respect each other and have an incredible relationship—makes our team better.”