Following the departure of Ederson to Fenerbahçe, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that the team will miss the unique qualities the Brazilian goalkeeper brought to the side, particularly his exceptional distribution skills. The arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain marks a significant change in City's goalkeeping department, with Guardiola prepared to adapt his tactical approach to suit the Italian's strengths.
Ederson's eight-year tenure at Manchester City saw him revolutionize the goalkeeper position in English football. His ability to launch attacks from the back with accurate and incisive passes was a key component of Guardiola's tactical system. Ederson's passing range and composure on the ball allowed City to build from the back, turning defense into attack with remarkable fluidity. This ability was not just a bonus, but an integral part of City's possession-based style, making him a perfect fit for Guardiola's philosophy. In fact, during his time in England, Ederson recorded seven Premier League assists, which is two more than any other goalkeeper in the league.
Donnarumma, who joined City on transfer deadline day, is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, brings a different skill set to the Etihad Stadium. While Donnarumma is an exceptional shot-stopper and a commanding presence in the penalty area, his distribution skills are not considered to be on par with Ederson's. This has led to questions about how Guardiola will adapt his tactics to accommodate the Italian's strengths.
Guardiola has made it clear that he will not expect Donnarumma to replicate Ederson's style of play. Instead, he intends to focus on Donnarumma's unique attributes, such as his height, commanding presence, and shot-stopping ability. "Always I try to adapt to the quality of the players," Guardiola said. "I will not demand Gigi do something that is uncomfortable". He emphasized that Donnarumma was not brought in to specifically replicate what Ederson did, but rather to bring his own distinct qualities to the team.
Joe Hart, former Man City keeper, believes Donnarumma is more than capable with his feet. He has watched him play under pressure for both Italy and AC Milan.
Donnarumma himself has expressed his excitement about joining Manchester City and competing for a starting role. He recognizes the challenge of replacing a player like Ederson but is eager to make his own mark at the club. "Playing in the Premier League with Manchester City is a great emotion for me and I'm ready for this challenge," Donnarumma said. "I've always dreamed about playing in the Premier League, as it's the best league in the world".
With Ederson's departure and Donnarumma's arrival, Manchester City is entering a new era in their goalkeeping department. While the team will undoubtedly miss Ederson's unique qualities, Guardiola is confident that Donnarumma's strengths will bring a new dimension to the team. The manager's willingness to adapt his tactics to suit his players ensures that City will remain a force to be reckoned with, both domestically and in Europe.
It is worth noting that Ederson has recently been battling a number of fitness and injury problems. He sustained a groin injury during a match against Crystal Palace in April 2025, and there were concerns that he could be sidelined for a number of weeks.
