Brazil goalkeeper Ederson has admitted that unhappiness and recurring injuries led him to seek a way out of Manchester City before his eventual move to Fenerbahçe this year.
The 32-year-old, who ended an eight-year spell at City to join the Turkish club in a £12 million ($16.1 million) deal, spoke candidly about his struggles during a press conference ahead of Brazil’s friendly against Senegal on Saturday.
“In the season before that, I had already tried to leave, but it didn’t work out,” Ederson said. “I think that influenced my performance a little. I had five injuries and wasn’t at my best.”
He explained that the decision to leave was motivated by the need for a fresh start. “It was something I’d already discussed with my family. There’s no point in being at a giant, successful club if you’re not happy,” he said.
Ederson joined City from Benfica in 2017 and went on to win 18 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League, as well as three Golden Glove awards.
Now at Fenerbahçe, the Brazil international says the move has rekindled his love for football. “It’s good to have new challenges. With this change, I’m breathing football again and feeling the atmosphere in Turkey, which is crazy. I’m very happy with this new challenge,” he said.
Ederson will be part of the Brazil squad that faces Senegal, with the team already qualified for the 2026 World Cup after their 1-0 victory over Paraguay in June.