"I don't think it's professional to start the substitute goalkeeper in a final"

Former Ajax and Milan player Marco Van Basten commented on the FA Cup final between Manchester City and United on 'Ziggo Sport'. The legend was surprised that Pep Guardiola fielded Stefan Ortega and not Ederson.

"I don't think it's professional to let your substitute goalkeeper play, because if he is, it's for a reason," he explained. "It's a friendly agreement and I understand it from that point of view, but you play a final and you have to field the best," he continued.

For Van Basten, it would have been better if the first-choice goalkeeper had been in goal because of what was at stake: "If Ederson is better, then I think the coach is making a mistake.

The Dutchman praised the fact that Pep tries to please everyone, but believes it is dangerous. "Dealing with your goalkeepers like that is very nice, but if you lose? If you field your second-choice goalkeeper out of friendship, I think it's a sign of weakness. It can also be interpreted as a bid for strength, an agreement between Guardiola and the goalkeepers, which is also fine. There are many who do that, but I wouldn't do it.

Before the match, Guardiola told a press conference that Ortega would start. "He's going to play. It has always been like that. The goalkeeper who plays in the Cup plays in the final," he explained.

 

June 3, 2023