When Manchester City rolls into Wembley this Sunday, one question will loom larger than Erling Haaland’s shoe size: will Ederson be fit? City’s clash against Crystal Palace forced the Brazilian shot-stopper off. And now, just when City fans need him most, he’s a giant question mark.
Pep Guardiola, that eternal optimist wrapped in designer scarves, sounded less than convincing about Ederson’s fitness. “We’ll see,” Pep shrugged, which is manager-speak for flip a coin and pray. Although Ederson has returned to a little bit of training (technical medical term), City are not taking any bets yet.
His Fitness: The Elephant in the Etihad
City without Ederson is like fish without chips — technically possible but emotionally devastating. His distribution, his coolness under pressure, his weird ability to make a one-on-one feel like a WWE showdown he’s already won — these things are irreplaceable.
Against a feisty Nottingham Forest side dreaming of glory, the last thing Guardiola needs is defensive panic. Yet here we are, wondering if Ederson can make it back in time to patch up a backline wobblier than a jelly at a kids’ party.
Ederson’s Absence Would Be a Nightmare at Wembley
Let’s be honest: City’s backup options are fine if you’re chasing silverware in your Sunday league, not in the FA Cup semi-finals. Ortega Moreno is competent, but he’s not Ederson. No jaw-dropping saves with a side of samba flair. No laser-guided missiles to set up counter-attacks.
City is not a stranger to beginning matches with a clean sheet — not wishing for one like a kid asking for a pony at Christmas.
If Ederson Plays, City’s FA Cup Hopes Get a Major Boost
Should Ederson strap up and take the gloves on Sunday, expect a collective sigh of relief loud enough for Manchester and beyond. His presence could be the difference between a tight nervy win and a stomach-churning collapse.
So, Pep, if you’re reading this (and honestly, why not?), whatever it takes: ice baths, magic potions, positive thinking — get Ederson on that pitch.
City’s Wembley dreams might just depend on it.
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