Guardiola Confirms Goalkeeper Stability at Manchester City
In recent comments, Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, confirmed that both Ederson and Stefan Ortega will remain with the team, minimizing speculation surrounding interest in Espanyol’s goalkeeper, Joan García. Ederson, who has previously attracted attention from the Saudi Pro League, is nearing the end of his contract, which has sparked rumors of a potential transfer this summer. Meanwhile, Ortega, who is under contract until 2026, is also poised to stay as Guardiola expressed confidence in the current goalkeeper lineup as they plan for the upcoming season.
“We have discussed our squad planning, and we will continue with the two goalkeepers we have,”
Guardiola stated during a golf event in Catalonia, emphasizing his contentment with the situation.
García’s Potential and Competition
Although Manchester City is monitoring other goalkeeping talents, including Diogo Costa of FC Porto, García stands out as a particularly promising option. With a release clause estimated at €25 million ($28.6 million), the 24-year-old has drawn interest from multiple clubs, including Barcelona, which complicates City’s potential pursuit.
Guardiola praised García, acknowledging his qualities: “Joan García is an impressive goalkeeper. However, at every transfer window, City is linked with numerous players, and he remains an Espanyol player. The feedback I’ve received is very positive regarding his abilities.”
Should Manchester City step back from pursuing García, it could create an opportunity for Barcelona, despite the goalkeeper’s inclination to evaluate all options, including remaining with Espanyol. Premier League clubs such as Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth have also been noted as keen on García’s services.
Barcelona’s Goalkeeper Situation
Barcelona concluded last season with three goalkeepers: Wojciech Szczęsny, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Iñaki Peña. Peña is open to transfers as he seeks regular playtime, while Szczęsny has received a contract extension offer to stay at the club. Ter Stegen, locked in until 2028, reaffirmed his commitment to Barcelona amidst speculation about García:
“I am not concerned about the rumors, as I will be at Barcelona next season,”
he remarked from a training camp in Germany as they prep for the UEFA Nations League finals.
The coming weeks promise to be pivotal as transfer activity heats up, especially regarding the future of young talents like García and established figures like Ederson at Manchester City and Barcelona.
