Atalanta midfielder Ederson has finally spoken about the breakdown of his much-anticipated transfer to Manchester United. Even though the two clubs had agreed a deal, the move collapsed at the final stage after a controversial medical assessment.
Confusion over the Old Trafford collapse remains. The Brazil international looked set for a Premier League switch earlier this summer after Atalanta and Manchester United agreed a fee of around €45m. The plan was for the 27-year-old to complete the transfer after representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking at a press conference before a Conference League play-off against Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Ederson admitted he still does not know the exact reason the move failed. “I am very happy to remain with Atalanta. I really thank the club and Luca Percassi. They called me many times, and I felt they were by my side. Even though I had interest from other clubs, after everything that happened, I thought it was best to stick with who really wanted me, and that was always Atalanta. I was happy to wear the jersey that has given me so much joy,” he said.
The decision to call off the transfer surprised many, especially because Ederson has been a consistent performer in Serie A and had a clean bill of health. Although the move fell apart after the Premier League club raised concerns over knee issues during his medical - leading him instead to sign an extension in Bergamo until 2031 - there was speculation that the medical issue may simply have been used as a convenient explanation for a shift in recruitment plans at Old Trafford.
“I honestly don’t know what happened. I always had interest from other clubs, and I could’ve gone to another English side. The tests went well; I don’t know what changed. I’ve been with Atalanta for four years and always played,” the midfielder told Sky Sport Italia. “I could’ve just waited to see what happened, but the great rapport with the club convinced me to stay and sign a new contract.”
Despite the frustration of seeing a dream move to one of the world’s biggest clubs fall through, Ederson is determined to show his fitness and value on the pitch. The Brazilian midfielder made 41 appearances for Atalanta in all competitions last season, scoring three goals and supplying two assists, before coming on twice as a substitute for Brazil against Haiti and Norway at the World Cup. He has now quickly turned his focus back to his responsibilities under Maurizio Sarri, where he is regarded as a leading contender for the captain’s armband.
“I had lovely moments going to the World Cup with Brazil, and then… I still don’t know what happened to be honest, but the important thing is that I was able to deal with the situation, return with the right mentality and give my all to the club that gave me so much. I am still Ederson; everyone knows me here and what I can do, and they know I will always give my all,” Ederson stated.
Ederson’s decision to commit his long-term future to the Gewiss Stadium has been warmly welcomed by club officials, with Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli even calling him their “best new signing” of the summer. Although he is already a well-known figure at the club, the security of his new contract is a major boost for a side aiming to build on their 2024 Europa League triumph.
“I thank the fans; they are always so passionate and stand by you, in good and bad moments. We won the Europa League, had great results, they know me,” he added while looking ahead to the new season. “I don’t see myself as a new signing; I have always been an Atalanta player.”
