Ederson opens up about why his move to Man Utd didn’t happen, even though Atalanta had agreed.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson has finally opened up about his missed chance to join Manchester United.
Back in June, it looked like Ederson would be United’s first big signing of the summer after reports said the club agreed to pay £35 million to Atalanta.
But the move hit a snag when Ederson got a last-minute call to join Brazil’s World Cup squad, so some steps like his medical were pushed back until after the tournament.
United planned for Ederson to start training with them in early July, but later medical tests in the US found a knee problem, and the deal fell through.
In mid-July, there were talks that United might try again to sign Ederson, but since then, they’ve signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, and are close to signing Carlos Baleba from Brighton.
United made it clear these new signings didn’t happen because of any problems with Ederson.
Now, Ederson has finally shared his side of the story after signing a new contract with Atalanta.
Before Atalanta’s Conference League game against Hapoel Tel Aviv, he said, “Honestly, I don’t know what happened. I had interest from other clubs and could’ve moved to another English team. The tests went well, so I’m not sure what changed. I’ve been with Atalanta for four years and always played. I could’ve waited and seen what happened, but my great relationship with the club made me want to stay and sign a new deal.”
The 27-year-old, who has played 180 games for Atalanta, said he’s focused on the future instead of dwelling on what might have been.
“I had amazing moments going to the World Cup with Brazil, and then… I still don’t really know what happened,” he added.
“But what matters is that I handled it well, came back with the right mindset, and am giving my best to the club that has given me so much.
“Everyone knows who I am here and what I can do. I always give my all.
“I’m very happy to stay with Atalanta, and I’m grateful to the club and CEO Luca Percassi. They called me many times and showed real support. Even though other clubs were interested, after everything, I felt it was best to stick with the club that truly wanted me — Atalanta.
“I’m proud to wear the jersey that has brought me so much joy.”
Atalanta will start their Serie A season at home against Sassuolo on August 23.