Ederson left Manchester City for Fenerbahce in the summer after eight years at the Etihad, but the Brazilian admitted he was close to leaving the club a year ago.
Ederson left Manchester City this summer because he was desperate for a new challenge, and admitted he had previously tried to engineer a move away from the Etihad.
The Brazilian moved to Fenerbahce for £12m in the summer, ending his eight years as City’s No. 1 goalkeeper, with the Blues investing £26m in Gianluigi Donnarumma to replace him.
There has been much speculation about Ederson’s departure as to whether City were taking advantage of Paris Saint-Germain’s signing of Donnarumma, or whether Ederson’s desire to leave paved the way for the Italian’s arrival.
Ederson, 32, admitted it was his decision to quit City after making 372 appearances for the club, and blamed last season’s inconsistent performances on a failed attempt to secure a transfer 12 months ago.
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“I already tried to leave last season, but it didn’t work out,” he said. “I think it affected my performance a little bit during the season. I got injured five times and wasn’t at my best level,” he said.
“I had already decided with my family that I would talk to the club about leaving if it was agreed. I needed this change. There’s no point in being at a huge championship club if you’re not happy. It will continue to affect me in the same way.”
Ederson’s excellent footwork has revolutionized Premier League goalkeeping, but his position at the Etihad has become increasingly uncertain in recent campaigns. Stefan Ortega replaced him at times last term.
The club paid £27 million to re-sign James Trafford in July and had hoped the English shot-stopper would compete with Ederson for a starting spot, but the Brazilian has now made it clear he wants to leave.
When Donnarumma arrived on deadline day, the 26-year-old was immediately made first choice, raising doubts about his future at Trafford.
“Every cycle comes to an end, players leave, but the club always remains,” Ederson said. “After eight great years in a City shirt and winning 18 titles, I needed this change and a change of pace.
“When Fenerbahce came, I accepted it. I still have the same mentality and continue to work off the field, just like I did with the physical trainers at City. I still have the winning mentality that I had at City and Benfica, and I want to win at Fenerbahce too.”
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