New Manchester City signing Stefan Ortega is said to have communicated with German compatriot Ilkay Gundogan over settling in his new home, Manchester. After reportedly rejecting other clubs in Europe, Ortega is 'excited' at the opportunity of working with Pep Guardiola and goalkeeper coach Xabi Mancisidor.
The story comes from Sam Lee of The Athletic in which he states that Ortega turned down deals from other clubs, who were willing to propose more financially appealing offers to the player, due to the prospect of playing in the best league in the world and working under one of the greatest managers of all time in Pep Guardiola.
Schalke were reportedly one of the clubs who had Ortega on their radar, but a new culture was what the German goalkeeper was eager to experience, another reason for his move to the Etihad Stadium.
Sam Lee reports that Xabi Mancisidor did have many phone calls with the new signing over the past couple of weeks and was also the first to welcome Ortega on the phone following the signing of his new contract, which shows Mancisidor's regard and approval towards the new number 18.
Moving from relegation battles in the Bundesliga to playing in the biggest of games in Europe at City is a huge test for him, but the challenge is said to not have fazed the goalkeeper, but rather motivate him.
Ederson's role is an extremely important one for the team. His comfortability on the ball, his range of passes and his ability to help the team play out from the back is a significant set of qualities in order to play for a Guardiola side.
Ortega seems to be a perfect fit after the season he has just had for Arminia Bielefeld, producing the second-most saves in the division and boasting a staggering save percentage of 73.3%. He is no stranger to the ball at his feet too, amassing 35.0 accurate passes per game, which in comparison to Ederson's 23.0, is an incredible achievement.
Sam Lee also revealed that Ortega was on the phone with City midfielder and German international Ilkay Gundogan regarding life in Manchester and advice on where to live. The city centre is home to many of City's players, including Gundogan, who actually lives next door to Guardiola. Ortega, however, may reportedly look to find accommodation in the outskirts of the city.
With Zack Steffen expected to leave the club on loan this summer, Ortega will be the new number two behind Ederson and seems to have all the attributes required to play comfortably between the sticks for the Premier League champions.
Written by: @MCFCNavii
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