Earlier this summer, Manchester United were close to signing Ederson from Atalanta. But a deal fell through due to medical reasons, leading to the midfielder staying in Bergamo.
La Dea take on Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Conference League playoff first-leg tomorrow and the Brazilian was present in the press conference ahead of the tie.
He was asked about his stay in Bergamo and he made it clear that he was happy to stay, even after all the chaos involving Manchester United.
He said – via TMW: “I’m happy to stay at Atalanta. I received many offers afterward, but given what happened, I made it my priority to wear this jersey again. Then in the summer I also experienced the World Cup, where I enjoyed it, and the most important thing was to return to Bergamo with the right mindset.”
Ederson also thanked the club’s fans for supporting him, even if he was out of the exit door at one point.
“They’ve always been there for me, wherever we’ve experienced some extraordinary moments, including winning the Europa League in Dublin. They know me and know l’ve always been the same. I never said in the transfer market that I wanted to leave; l’ve always been an Atalanta player, and I’m happy to still be one.”
The Brazil international is expected to play a different role under Maurizio Sarri this season. He opened up about his expectations.
“It’s a slightly different role, and I know I can add something offensive, because I’ve always given my best in terms of running and substance, even in defense. Maintaining this modus operandi at the back, but at the same time lending a big hand in attack and following the coach’s requests.”
Ederson is now club captain and indeed, he will have a key role to play under Sarri. It will be a big season for him, as he looks to put Manchester United behind him.
