Ederson Reflects on His Transition to Fenerbahce

Despite the remarkable achievements during his time at Manchester City, Ederson confessed to feeling a sense of stagnation at the Etihad. He acknowledged that the passion he once had began to diminish, especially after a difficult final season in 2024-25, which was marred by a series of five injuries that left him frustrated and out of sync. The arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain for £26 million ($34 million) signaled the end of his tenure with the Cityzens. Subsequently, he signed with Fenerbahce, stating that the decision was motivated as much by a desire for happiness as it was by his professional objectives.

Since making his debut for Fenerbahce in September, Ederson has fully embraced the vibrant atmosphere of Turkish football. Reflecting on his transition from City, he remarked, “All cycles come to an end; players come and go, but the club always remains. I had eight wonderful years wearing the City shirt and won 18 titles, but I needed this change and a new environment. When Fenerbahce presented itself, I welcomed the opportunity. My mentality remains the same; I continue my off-field work, just as I did at City with my physical trainer. I still possess the winning mindset I held at City and Benfica, and I aim to achieve victory at Fenerbahce as well.”

Ederson is already focused on winning titles with Fenerbahce, stating, “Sometimes, new challenges are beneficial in life and in one’s career. They reignite one’s energy and bring forth new perspectives. With this change, I feel invigorated by football once again, experiencing the electrifying atmosphere of games in Turkey. I am genuinely excited about this challenge; the club has not claimed a national title in a long time, and I hope to help restore that glory and elevate the team to the top.”

While there were other offers on the table, including interest from Italy and Saudi Arabia, Ederson revealed that his decision was influenced by trusted figures. He consulted with Claudio Taffarel, Brazil’s legendary goalkeeping coach and Galatasaray icon, as well as several Brazilian players who previously represented Fenerbahce. Their positive insights facilitated his decision.

“I had a brief conversation with Taffarel, even though he is associated with our rival, Galatasaray,” he said. “He spoke highly of the city, its culture, and its people. Additionally, I conversed with fellow Brazilians who played for Fenerbahce, and their endorsements of the club, city, and local culture further solidified my choice. I am truly enjoying this new challenge in a new country and league.”

Ederson also shared that he had previously sought to leave City, feeling a strong need for change. “In an earlier season, I attempted to depart, but it did not materialize,” he said. “I believe that desire affected my performance during that time. I endured five injuries and was not at my optimal level. My family and I had already agreed to discuss my potential departure with the club if an agreement was reached. I needed this transition; remaining at a prestigious, successful club while feeling unhappy would have continued to impact me negatively.”

His resurgence in Turkey has already opened doors for him, as Carlo Ancelotti has summoned him for international duty in the upcoming friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia this November. With the World Cup approaching, Ederson is aware that every performance is crucial, and he will be vying for a starting position alongside Alisson Becker.

“With the World Cup so imminent, there is always significant anticipation,” he remarked. “I was omitted from the last few call-ups due to injury, so my expectations are high. No player can assume they have a guaranteed spot, except for Ancelotti. The final decision rests with him, as the pool of talent is extensive, and it will be a challenge for him to select the final 23 players.”

Ederson is rediscovering his enjoyment for football in Turkey, and his fervor for success burns as brightly as ever. He aims to make Ancelotti’s selection process as challenging as possible, driven by the motivation that comes with his fresh start at Fenerbahce.