Stefan Ortega ended speculation over his future and insisted he has 'everything he needs' at Manchester City.
Goalkeeper Ortega made 20 appearances for City this term in all competitions and played a crucial role during the Premier League title race. The 31 year-old stepped into the heat of the run-in when Ederson suffered a head injury at Tottenham in the penultimate game of the season, and Ortega emerged as the hero with a number of fine saves - including a point-blank stop to deny Son Heung-min when clean through late on - as City went on to win their fourth successive Premier League title.
Ortega is much-liked at the Etihad and with speculation over the future of the club's first choice - with Ederson having been linked with a big-money switch to Saudi Arabia amid claims the Brazilian fancies a new challenge - he has elected to sign an extension to his deal, tying him down until 2026.
“I am delighted to be staying at Manchester City for longer,” said Ortega, who has been more outspoken on his desire to be a No.1 again in recent months. “This is a football club that provides players with everything we need to be our best. Every single day I feel motivated and challenged, and I have improved as a goalkeeper since coming here two years ago.
“My family are really settled here in England, I love everything about it here. Signing this deal means I can now focus 100 per cent on next season and beyond.”
City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain said extending Ortega’s stay was an important factor for the club.
“This is a crucial contract extension for Manchester City,” he said. “Stefan is the best number two goalkeeper we’ve ever had, providing us with quality, stability and experience.
“He is very skilled and it’s clear that since his arrival here he has contributed significantly to our success.”
The question now is whether Ederson remains in situ and continues his trophy-laden spell in Manchester, which would keep Ortega anchored as second choice, or whether he departs and gives Ortega the opportunity to make the No.1 spot his own.