Pep Guardiola has explained the reasoning behind Stefan Ortega starting over Ederson in Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Brighton. There were eyebrows raised when Ortega was named in goal instead of the Brazilian shot-stopper. Ortega performed admirably as City returned to winning ways.
Speaking post-game Guardiola explained why Ederson didn’t start against Brighton. City’s number one keeper had a busy international schedule. He started twice for Brazil in their World Cup qualifiers over the international break. Guardiola said: “Just for the fact the travel from Eddy from Brazil. It happens many times and he plays but he plays two games (last week).”
Pep further explained that Ederson was extremely tired after a busy international period. He added: “The first day he arrives he was so tired. Normally Ortega plays Carabao Cup, but now we are out, the FA Cup. Sometimes I like, even for Eddy is good to rest your mind. Sometimes other players are tired. A keeper can be tired too. With the ball, he is really good, composure, patient, quality of the pass. That’s why we decide.”
Ortega performed well in goal during City’s win. He made one big save from Kaoru Mitoma and was good in possession when required. City are fortunate to have two quality keepers in their ranks.
Stefan Ortega also started all of Manchester City’s successful FA Cup run last season. When Ederson does need a rest like this past weekend, Pep Guardiola knows he has a quality shot-stopper to fill the void left by Ederson not starting.
Up next for Manchester City is a trip to Switzerland to face Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League as the group stage continues. Whether or not Ederson returns to the starting lineup won’t be known until the starting lineups are announced.
More must-reads: