Manchester City Eyes Club World Cup History as Ederson Highlights Squad Motivation

Manchester City is eyeing a historic achievement at the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, with goalkeeper Ederson revealing that the chance to become the tournament's inaugural winners is a powerful motivator. The Brazilian shot-stopper, a part of the City squad that lifted the Club World Cup in 2023, has played a key role in Pep Guardiola's side enjoying a dominant start to the new 32-team format.

City is set to face European rivals Juventus today, Thursday, in their final Group G match in Orlando. Having won their first two encounters without conceding a single goal, a victory against the Vecchia Signora in the Florida heat would secure them the top spot in the group. This would grant them the significant advantage of playing their next knockout phase match right there in Orlando.

City's Unwavering Confidence: New Faces, Renewed Hunger

Ederson emphasized the squad's collective drive to make history in the revamped Club World Cup. "It's very important for us to try to make history and win this competition," the City goalkeeper stated, underscoring the significance of the new format.

This Manchester City side competing in the U.S. is a refreshed squad, bolstered by the recent arrivals of Rayan Aït-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Marcus Bettinelli earlier this month. For Ederson, who has been with City since 2017, the integration of these four new signings has had a palpably positive effect on the entire team.

"For me, it's like the start of a new season, as new players have arrived, and we've begun preparations for the next campaign," Ederson added. "Now it's very important that we have a big squad. Normally we have between 22 and 23 players, but now we are 27." He highlighted the depth this brings: "We have two teams: the new players have arrived with a new mentality and more hunger to win matches and trophies. That is very important for us." This blend of established champions and hungry new talent is fueling City's confidence as they push for further glory.