Ederson insists he still doesn’t ‘know what really happened’ with the failed Manchester United medical, but was happy to sign a new Atalanta contract. ‘This club really wanted me.’
The midfielder had already agreed the transfer to Manchester United in June for circa €45m, aiming to complete it after the 2026 World Cup experience with Brazil.
However, when the Premier League side found issues with his knee in a medical, they scrapped the entire move, and he instead penned a new contract in Bergamo until 2031.
Ederson confused by Manchester United
“I am very happy to remain with Atalanta, I really thank the club and Luca Percassi,” said Ederson in a press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Conference League play-off against Hapoel Tel-Aviv.
“They called me many times, I felt they were by my side, but even though I had interest from other clubs, after everything that happened, I thought it was best to stick with who really wanted me, and that was always Atalanta.
“I was happy to wear the jersey that has given me so much joy.”
Manchester United’s decision to scrap the Ederson transfer took Atalanta entirely by surprise, as they and the player maintain there was no major injury to warrant such a turnaround.
Instead, they signed him to a new contract, and now he’s in line for the captain’s armband.
“I had lovely moments going to the World Cup with Brazil, and then… I still don’t know what happened to be honest, but the important thing is that I was able to deal with the situation, return with the right mentality and give my all to the club that gave me so much.
“I am still Ederson, everyone knows me here and what I can do, they know I will always give my all.”
The player also spoke to Sky Sport Italia about this situation with Manchester United, which many assumed was an excuse to change their minds.
“I honestly don’t know what happened. I always had interest from other clubs, and I could’ve gone to another English side. The tests went well, I don’t know what changed. I’ve been with Atalanta for four years and always played.
“I could’ve just waited to see what happened, but the great rapport with the club convinced me to stay and sign a new contract.”
Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli said that Ederson is the ‘best new signing’ for them this summer, while the fans were pleased to see him remain.
“I thank the fans, they are always so passionate and stand by you, in good and bad moments. We won the Europa League, had great results, they know me,” added Ederson.
“I don’t see myself as a new signing, I have always been an Atalanta player.”
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