Stefan Ortega Moreno moves as expected from Bundesliga relegated Bielefeld to the English champions. Manchester City are delighted with a “very good deal”.
Stefan Ortega Moreno is relinquishing his number one status to play for one of the best teams in Europe. On Friday, Manchester City announced the signing of the 29-year-old goalkeeper.
Ortega Moreno, who leaves his long-time club Arminia Bielefeld (2007 to 2014, 2017 to 2022) on a free transfer, will be signed by the English champions until 2025 and will act as Ederson’s replacement keeper. Previous number 2 Zack Steffen is set to leave.
Bielefeld are “insanely proud “
With his footballing qualities, Ortega Moreno fits in perfectly with coach Pep Guardiola’s philosophy. “We are of course insanely proud that a player trained in the ‘Akademinia’ is now playing for the very big trophies in one of the best teams in the world,” the Bielefeld side tweeted.
“This is a fantastic step for me,” Ortega Moreno said himself, even though he will probably get some match practice mainly in the domestic cup competitions. “Manchester City is a fantastic team – a squad with world-class quality in every area. It’s a dream for me to get the chance to join this group of players. “
“His career speaks for itself “
He thanked Arminia for their support. “But this new challenge of joining City and playing in the Premier League is too good to ignore. I can’t wait to get started, meet my teammates and work with Pep and his team,” said the future teammate of Erling Haaland.
Director of football Txiki Begiristain sees Ortega Moreno’s signing as a “very good deal” for ManCity. “His career speaks for itself. We are signing a goalkeeper who has great experience and will help us in our quest for more trophies.”
Ortega Moreno, who is making the move abroad for the first time in his professional career, will be given shirt number 18.