2 days ago
6
Ederson has described his tenure at Manchester City as "the most special time of my life," as he says goodbye to the Premier League team to make room for Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The goalkeeper has finalized a transfer to Fenerbahce - who recently fired Jose Mourinho - concluding an eight-year stint at the Etihad, where he has garnered numerous accolades and revolutionized the perception of his role.
Although he's off to embrace a new challenge, Ederson leaves behind an extraordinary legacy both at the club and in English soccer. His memories of his time here will not fade quickly, and he took a moment to express gratitude to the fans for their warm welcome.
"I leave Manchester City incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I am honored to have worn the shirt so many times," he said. "Under Pep, we have won, dominated the Premier League, and conquered Europe. It has been amazing.
"I would first of all like to thank him and Xabier Mancisidor for making me the best goalkeeper I could be and teaching so much about the game.
"I must also thank my teammates. Our desire to win every game we play has been a joy to be a part of, and that has made me relish every day on the training field or in the dressing room with every one of you.
"Finally, the fans. Thank you for making me feel at home in a city so far away from where I am from and for supporting me throughout what has been an amazing period for me and my family.
"I arrived in Manchester eight years ago full of hope, but I could not have predicted such a beautiful time together.
"Playing for City has been the most special time of my life, and I will always be a fan of this special club. I'm going with my wife and children, but I'm leaving a big family here, Cityzens. Once a Blue, always a Blue."
Ederson's future was rife with speculation throughout the transfer window, with Galatasaray leading the chase since July and having an offer turned down by City.
However, Fenerbahce ramped up its interest in the closing days of the window and secured a deal that allowed City to forge ahead with plans to sign Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain.
Guardiola's team has seen a significant revamp in the goalkeeping department, with Donnarumma joining following the acquisitions of James Trafford from Burnley and Marcus Bettinelli from Chelsea.
Ederson, who had just one year remaining on his contract, was widely anticipated to see it through before departing on a free transfer next summer.
However, interest in him sparked this year, prompting City to indicate their intention to shake up the squad.
English (US) ·