Pep Guardiola has confirmed during his pre-game press conference that Ederson could make his return to the City squad against Crystal Palace. The Brazilian keeper has been out with a thigh injury he sustained during Manchester City’s 1-all draw with Liverpool last month.
The City manager told the media that Ederson could return to his match day squad for today’s game at Selhurst Park. He also revealed that Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker remain out for today’s match. When asked about the trio, Guardiola said: “Eddie is much better and maybe will be on the list. Nathan and Kyle are out.”
Guardiola was also asked if the form of Stefan Ortega makes it a difficult choice as to who starts in goal with Ederson set to return. The City manager answered: “Yes, Stefan is playing really good, so we have to think about it as well. I’ll speak with Xavier. Maybe we give a little more time, maybe not, we’ll see tonight and tomorrow. But, we have the guarantee. Of course, Scott is important third keeper and important for many reasons, but Eddie and Stefen… we are so safe because both are exceptional keepers, exceptional.”
The world champions are fortunate to have to quality keepers to choose from. With Stefan Ortega in superb form, it allows Manchester City the luxury of not having to rush Ederson back until he’s fully fit. Ortega has started City’s last two games against Arsenal and Aston Villa. He made several superb saves against Aston Villa to help his team pick up a crucial victory.
