Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson will miss the remainder of the 2023/24 season after suffering a fractured eye socket during the team’s 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.
The incident occurred in the 61st minute when Ederson collided with Tottenham defender Cristian Romero. Though he initially attempted to continue playing after receiving treatment, City opted for caution and replaced him with Stefan Ortega.
Ederson Frustrated with Early Substitution
Television cameras captured Ederson’s frustration with the decision as he shoved past manager Pep Guardiola and kicked an advertising board before taking a seat on the bench.
According to report from The Mirror, scans confirmed a “small fracture to the right eye socket,” ruling him out for the final two matches of the season. A club statement expressed well wishes for Ederson’s speedy recovery.
Despite entering the match with less than half an hour remaining, Ortega emerged as a standout performer, earning Player of the Match honors. He made two critical saves, including a pivotal stop against Son Heung-min who had broken through on goal. With Ederson sidelined, Ortega is now poised to take on the starting goalkeeper role for the remainder of the campaign.
Ortega Faces Premier League and FA Cup Battles
Manchester City face West Ham in their final Premier League match of the season. A win will secure their fourth consecutive title, regardless of the outcome in the match between Arsenal and Everton. Ortega has a proven track record, having kept four clean sheets in his eight Premier League appearances this season.
Following the Premier League finale, City will take on Manchester United in the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium. As Ortega played every minute of the FA Cup competition this season, he was likely to start the final even if Ederson were healthy. However, Ederson’s injury now makes Ortega’s starting role virtually guaranteed, assuming he is fit and available.
Speaking after the Tottenham win, Guardiola lauded Ortega’s contribution, acknowledging that Arsenal would be champions without Ortega’s crucial save against Son. He praised Ortega’s focus and decisiveness, crediting his German background for his “stand up, don’t go down” mentality.
