In Manchester City’s latest 2-0 victory against Chelsea in the Third Round of the Carabao Cup, Stefan Ortega emerged as the biggest talking point after the contest.
The German goalkeeper was simply unplayable on Wednesday night, making a series of incredible saves that led many to crown him as City’s best performer.
On the ball as well, the former Arminia Bielefeld shotstopper looked like the archetypal Pep Guardiola goalkeeper, as he was spraying pinpoint passes for fun on the night.
If there was one major takeaway from Ortega’s monstrous showing, it was that he most certainly is a huge upgrade on Zack Steffen.
However, a number of Sky Blues supporters raised the question of why Stefan Ortega cannot become the club’s No.1, as many felt Ederson would potentially have let in some of the venomous attempts he saved.
The 30-year old discussed how his role has always been to give the Brazilian ‘keeper stiff competition for his spot since his arrival.
“It was clear before, the club told me they searched for a goalkeeper who tries to push Edi [Ederson] and tries to improve, and is ready when the time is coming to play”, he told Manchester Evening News.
As things stand, Stefan Ortega is certainly doing a brilliant job as a No.2, as he has looked the part in previous games as well, such as City’s 3-1 win against Sevilla.
However, the veteran’s clutch shotstopping could perhaps give him the edge over Ederson, especially in knockout games where proceedings are frantic.
With Pep Guardiola’s side aspiring to win the Champions League this season, the experienced goalkeeper could well be tailor-made for the competition.
However, for the timebeing, Ederson’s status as Manchester City’s No.1 is in safe hands and rightfully so, considering the brilliance he has showcased for years on end.
