Guardiola credits Ortega’s heroics for Man City’s PL title charge
Pep Guardiola attributes Manchester City’s Premier League title contention to goalkeeper Stefan Ortega’s heroics, claiming Arsenal would have clinched the crown otherwise.
He said in his post-match press conference, as relayed on Beanyman Sports:
“I would say, how is the team a team? It’s because Ortega saved the actions, otherwise Arsenal are the champions.
“That is the reality in modern football. The margins are so, so, so tight.”
In a crucial showdown against Tottenham Hotspur, Ortega’s stunning save thwarted a golden opportunity for Spurs’ Heung-min Son, altering the course of the match and potentially the season.
Despite City’s historic struggles at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium under Guardiola’s tenure, Ortega’s exceptional performance proved pivotal.
Signed as a backup to Ederson, Ortega’s role evolved due to his consistent displays during Ederson’s injury spells.
Guardiola lauded Ortega’s prowess, labelling him one of the best keepers he’s witnessed. The 31-year-old’s journey from a backup signing to a game-changing asset underscores City’s depth and resilience.
Speaking about Ortega’s ability in one-on-one situations, Guardiola claimed he is one of the best goalkeepers he has ever seen.
He said: “Stefan made an incredible save. He has this talent. In one-against-one, he is one of the best keepers I’ve ever seen in my life.
“It’s a German culture, stand up, don’t go down, he’s so really, really, really good. But not today, since he arrived – playing in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup or even this season when Ederson had four times setbacks due to injuries, always he’s so reliable.
“He’s an incredible, incredible keeper. So the club and our keeper trainer made an incredible decision to bring him here, Incredible!”
With the title race hanging in the balance, Ortega’s timely intervention highlights the significance of every squad member’s contribution.
As City inches closer to clinching the title, Guardiola’s acknowledgment of Ortega’s impact resonates as a testament to the team’s collective effort and determination.
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