In Manchester City’s second-to-last fixture of the 2023-24 league season, starting goalkeeper Ederson was forced to leave after a collision with Cristian Romero, which resulted in the Brazilian international suffering a small fracture in his eye socket.
At the time, the blue and white led Tottenham 1-0 with a win, allowing Manchester City to control their destiny against West Ham in hopes of capturing a fourth straight Premier League title.
Coming on for Ederson was backup keeper Stefan Ortega, who produced a marvelous performance denying Dejan Kulusevski from close range before having his crowning moment by stopping Son when the South Korean international came in on a breakaway as Manchester City went on to win 2-0 and captured the league title the following week.
Rumors circulated that Ortega may go to the Bundesliga following the campaign, but instead, the 31-year-old has re-signed with Manchester City.
Stefan Ortega has agreed to a contract extension with Manchester City
According to the Manchester Evening News, Ortega has agreed to a one-year contract extension that will keep the 31-year-old with Manchester City until the end of the 2025-26 season.
“It’s now two years ago when I signed for City and what has happened in these two years is incredible,” Ortega said. “I think, just me as a person, I am a completely different person now than two years ago, and that means a lot for me. “We have won a lot of trophies and the Treble last year. Since I have been here, we just break records and records, so it’s nice to be a part of this special group.”
Via Manchester Evening News
Ortega made 20 appearances last season for the blue and white and has emerged as one of the best backup goalkeepers in the world. However, he could have a chance to start full-time for Ederson, likely on his way out, which remains the 31-year-old’s goal.
“Try to get the number one spot, this is why I signed for Man City. And then, of course, do the same as the two years before,” Ortega said. “Try to win a lot of trophies but enjoy life as well because life is too short sometimes to not enjoy life. I think this is the best place where I can be a good person and a good footballer.”
Via Manchester Evening News
Time will tell if Ortega takes over the starting role full-time, but Pep Guardiola has secured at least one starting-caliber keeper as Manchester City attempts to win five league titles in a row.