Goalkeeper set to push for Manchester City exit over status in Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad | OneFootball

Manchester City may be struck with a fresh blow in the goalkeeping department in the near future with new reports emerging concerning Stefan Ortega Moreno.

The 31-year-old has somewhat been at the centre of transfer headlines for a number of months at Manchester City, particularly as he goes in search of consistent opportunities as a number one goalkeeper.

At one stage during the last summer transfer window, Ederson’s potential move to the Saudi Pro League presented a clear run at the number one spot for Ortega with Manchester City holding no interest in signing a new number one for a significant fee.

Ultimately, Ederson remained at the Etihad Stadium with no club in the Middle-East presenting a proposal at the club’s £50 million valuation, and the Brazilian has in turn retained his status as the club’s number one choice between the sticks.

In the longer-term, that could present growing problems for Stefan Ortega, as the former Arminia Bielefeld goalkeeper is being forced to accept his status as Manchester City’s back-up under Pep Guardiola once again.

According to the information of German outlet SPORTBILD, Ortega has subsequently made a decision on his City future and will push for a move away from the club if he does not end up as their number one goalkeeper.

It is pointed out however that Ortega is willing to wait but not for too long, as he feels there is also an opportunity to step up into the Germany national team but will need regular playing time in order to take up the opening at that level.

As translated and relayed by Sport Witness, it is further explained that Ortega wants a clear signal from City in the coming months that he will be number one next season, and should that not happen, he will seek a move next summer or even in January depending on the offer.

An interesting detail pointed out within the report is that there is also a verbal contract in place with Manchester City that enables Ortega to leave the club if a good offer is made, despite his current contract running until 2026.

Stefan Ortega has only made two appearances so far this season for Manchester City, taking on his usual role in the Carabao Cup and a 2-1 home victory over Watford last week, before starting away from home in the UEFA Champions League.

Ortega’s starting role against Slovan Bratislava on Tuesday night enabled Ederson to secure a much-needed rest amid a chaotic fixture schedule, and the German was given very little to do in Slovakia as City cruised to a 0-4 win.

It remains to be seen how many more opportunities Ortega could get in Europe’s premier club competition, however a Carabao Cup fourth round tie away to Tottenham at the end of October is almost a certain appearance for the goalkeeper.