Gvardiol and Marmoush respond to Stefan Ortega amid Man City exit talk
Stefan Ortega has taken to social media to send a new message amid speculation around his future, with his Man City teammates Josko Gvardiola and Omar Marmoush among those to react.
The goalkeeper has largely played second fiddle to Ederson throughout the three years he has spent at the Etihad, although he did get more chances in the previous campaign.
But while Ortega impressed for Man City while filling in at times, the season still ended in frustrating circumstances with the club failing to pick up any major silverware.
Amid all that, uncertainty is now emerging around the 32-year-old’s future, as he enters the final year of his contract with Pep Guardiola‘s side.
Stefan Ortega reacts to Club World Cup progress
Earlier this season, Football Insider reported that Man City are looking to sign a new goalkeeper as neither Ortega or Ederson are seen as first choice options in the long term.
In the wake of that, the German has been touted for a move away from the Etihad, although he is still playing his part for his side for now.
Early on Monday morning (23 June), Ortega played the full 90 minutes for Man City as they thrashed Emirati side Al-Ain 6-0 in their second group stage game of the Club World Cup.
That ensures they have qualified for the knockout stages ahead of their final group game against Juventus on Thursday (26 June).
Taking to Instagram to reflect on that success, Ortega simply posted the caption “Round of 16” with a tick emoji.
In response, several of the Man City goalkeeper’s teammates, including Gvardiol, Marmoush, Nathan Ake and Marcus Bettinelli gave their backing by liking that post.
Man City making swift progress will be a relief
Football Insider Verdict
After a long, hard and frustrating season, it will not be easy for the Citizens having to go across the world to play a busy tournament such as this in challenging conditions with the extreme heat in the USA.
Indeed, some pundits suggested that Guardiola would not have even wanted Man City to be involved in the Club World Cup this summer.
But having secured their place in the knockout stages with one game of the group phase left to go, there is at least the opportunity to rest and rotate key players for that game with Juventuz.
With that in mind, there could be more opportunities for Ortega to catch the eye of potential suitors as the summer transfer window continues.