Pep Guardiola’s expression spoke volumes as Ederson took a considerable risk in Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over Red Star Belgrade.
Ederson, Manchester City’s goalkeeper, epitomizes the archetype of a top-notch modern goalkeeper. In addition to his exceptional shot-stopping abilities, the Brazilian international is remarkably skillful with his feet.
Indeed, Ederson once boasted early in his Man City career that he could play in midfield if Pep Guardiola ever asked him, having previously been deployed as an outfield player while representing Benfica’s youth team. Speaking to FourFourTwo in 2018, Ederson said: “When I played in the Benfica youth teams, they would always call me to play in midfield if someone was missing and I didn’t ever embarrass myself. So, if necessary I’m definitely up to the task. It wouldn’t be easy, especially in the Premier League, but I think I could manage the challenge.”
Ever since he joined the Etihad Stadium in 2017, Ederson has consistently demonstrated impressive composure when handling the ball. However, it’s worth noting that the 30-year-old goalkeeper has occasionally left City fans, and even Guardiola himself, feeling anxious due to his willingness to take risks.
What did Ederson do against Red Star Belgrade?
In an amusing incident during Manchester City’s Champions League match against Crvena Zvezda (commonly known as Red Star Belgrade) on Tuesday night, there was a noteworthy moment early in the second half. Ederson, the flamboyant South American goalkeeper, rushed out of his box to clear the ball as Red Star launched an attack. However, instead of simply kicking the ball into the stands, Ederson chose to showcase an eye-catching piece of skill.
It’s important to highlight that the game was finely balanced at 1-1 during this incident. Red Star had taken an unexpected 1-0 lead just before half-time through Osman Bukari, but Julian Alvarez, displaying great energy, promptly equalized for the reigning European champions shortly after the second half began.
Ederson took a risk by executing a Cruyff turn 35 yards from his own goal line, and his choice paid off, albeit narrowly. The Brazilian goalkeeper’s unexpected skill move caught Bukari off guard, and Manchester City retained possession of the ball. However, he easily could have been dispossessed, potentially leading to Red Star scoring their second goal of the evening.
Video: Pep’s reaction to Ederson’s skill makes commentators laugh
TNT Sport co-commentator Ally McCoist said: “He’s taking a chance there. I would actually love to know what Guardiola *really* thinks of that.” Right on cue, Guardiola’s reaction was then played on the live TV broadcast – and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
“That’s what he thinks,” TNT Sport commentator Darren Fletcher said. “Question answered, Ally!” The pair of them couldn’t help but laugh because Pep’s face was an absolute picture. You don’t need to be a mind reader to imagine what was going through the revered Catalan coach’s head. Watch the funny video below:
Man City went on to win their Group G opener 3-1, with Alvarez scoring his second goal of the night on the hour-mark before Rodri guaranteed the three points with an excellent goal in the 73rd minute. Guardiola’s side are the favourites once again heading into this season’s Champions League campaign but know they’ll need to be at their very best in order to retain their European crown.