Man City hero Stefan Ortega explains how Pep Guardiola changed his understanding of football as goalkeeper signs contract extension

Ortega, who joined City in the summer of 2022 from Arminia Bielefeld on a free transfer, has quickly become an integral part of the squad. His performances have been crucial, particularly in the last season where he made 20 appearances across all competitions in the absence of No.1 choice Ederson. He was rewarded for his performances with a new contract that sees him tied to the club until 2026 and was announced on Saturday.

One of his standout moments came with a critical one-on-one save against Tottenham’s Son Heung-min in the penultimate Premier League game, a stop that played a significant role in City’s unprecedented fourth consecutive league title. Moreover, he played in the FA Cup from the initial rounds and helped City reach the finals of the cup tournament for a second successive season before losing out to Manchester United in the final.

Reflecting on his growth, the 31-year-old attributed much of his development to Guardiola’s influence, telling the club’s website: “Sometimes it’s really hard because he tries to be perfect but obviously everyone knows to be perfect is impossible. But it’s enjoyable because if you work under Pep, he opens your view of football in a completely new way, it’s incredible. For example, when I watch football now I watch it so differently to before because you get so many inputs off Pep. He’s incredible. He’s a top guy and it’s just a privilege to be a part of his team.”

Ortega also expressed deep appreciation for goalkeeping coach Xabier Mancisidor, who has been instrumental in his development since his arrival at City.

“Xabier is incredible,” Ortega stated. “It’s what he sees in you and he is a guy who doesn’t try to change you as a person and as a keeper, he is just there. For example, he’ll say: ‘You do this in this way, try it in the other way, if you don’t like it do it your way but just try it’. And you know there’s no pressure to change just for him, he’s just there for you and tries to bring out the best of you.”

Guardiola’s demanding yet innovative approach has evidently left a lasting impact on Ortega, who feels his perspective on the game has broadened significantly after working with the Spanish manager. The goalkeeper’s appreciation for the coach’s meticulous nature highlights the unique environment Guardiola has cultivated at City, where continuous improvement and tactical sophistication are paramount.