Ederson performance against Real sign of things to come — Guardiola

LOS ANGELES: Ederson will reap the rewards from thwarting European football’s most potent attacking force, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola believes.

City romped to a 4-1 win over Champions League holders Real Madrid in Los Angeles on Wednesday, after a second half blitz saw Guardiola’s side secure a first pre-season victory.

However, prior to defender Nicolas Otamendi breaking the deadlock and changing the course of the game with the opening goal early in the second half, City had been indebted to new goalkeeper Ederson making several superb saves.

Ederson, signed for 40 million euros in June, prompted some question marks after a costly error in last week’s defeat to Manchester United.

Yet Guardiola is in no doubt that the 23-year- old is on course to become Brazil’s first- choice stopper.

“Of course it’s important for him,” Guardiola said of the strong performance on Wednesday.

“We knew his quality. To make a performance like today, helps us a lot.

“Sooner or later, he will become the Brazil national team keeper.

“He saved many, many balls. He has the quality to read the situations and he put in a good performance.”

TwoofCity’sfoursecond-halfgoals in the International Champions Cup tie came from corners with centrehalves Otamendi and John Stones both getting on the scoresheet.

Thos e two st r ikes were sandwiched by a cool finish from substitute Raheem Sterling after the impressive Kevin De Bruyne had a hand in all three goals.

“When Kevin’s mood is optimistic, he puts in performances like this,” Guardiola said.

“It’s difficult to find a player with his quality, fight and movement anywhere in the world.

“He’s a guy who fights, passes and assists and many other things. Hopefully he can be positive like the last three weeks.” — AFP