Stefan Ortega Reacts To Manchester City Transfer And Working With Ederson

In the midst of his transfer to Manchester City, Stefan Ortega has been discussing why he ultimately chose to move to England and how he can compete with Ederson for the number one spot from next season.

The Blues announced the free transfer earlier today, with Ortega signing a three-year deal that keeps him in Sky Blue until at least 2025.

Pep Guardiola's ideal goalkeeper is known to be someone who is just as comfortable with the ball at their feet and the German stopper certainly ticks all the boxes in that category.

In fact, just last season in Arminia Bielefeld's debut campaign in the Bundesliga, Stefan Ortega provided a stunning assist to open the team's account for the season.

Zack Steffen - Manchester City's usual number two - is expected to leave the club this summer in search of regular first-team football ahead of the FIFA World Cup in November.

Championship outfit Middlesbrough is his expected destination, with Stefan Ortega seemingly becoming the USMNT international's replacement.

That means that he will initially come in to compete against Ederson for the number one spot, but will also get the chance to play from the start in some domestic cup action.

Reacting to his latest venture, Ortega has been speaking to Manchester City.

“For me, it was the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs around the world," the German began.

"Also to get into a new country, into a new culture, and in the best league in the world. So there was in the package… perfect for me!”

Considering no change was expected in that area of the field this summer, it was perhaps a surprise to many that this particular move came to fruition - including Ortega himself.

“A bit, yes - because I went to Palma with my family and in the evening my agents called me and said, ‘Hey, I called with Txiki (Begiristain), they are interested to bring you to Manchester’" Ortega continued when asked about Manchester City's interest.

"I was like, ‘Okay… really?! Is it true?’ But then after I needed a lot of time to think about it because it’s a huge step because my old club is not that big like Manchester City."

"But now, I’m really happy to be part of a club like Manchester City.”

The 29-year-old also went on to discuss watching Ederson from afar and how much he is excited about working with the Brazilian on a daily basis.

“Yes, a lot of times. Every single week, when the Champions League is (on) or sometimes in the Premier League."

"He had one or two assists with the long ball; that’s one of the things I like in goalkeepers, when they have a really good long ball."

"He is a good keeper, so I’m looking forward to being a part of here," he concluded.