Atalanta midfielder Ederson has addressed the dramatic collapse of his proposed move to Manchester United after a transfer that appeared close to completion broke down during the final stages.
The Brazilian midfielder had reportedly been on course to join the Premier League giants after Atalanta and Manchester United reached an agreement worth around €45 million. The plan was for the 27-year-old to complete the switch after representing Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.
However, the deal eventually fell apart following concerns raised during Manchester United’s medical assessment, with reports pointing to an issue involving Ederson’s knee. The midfielder subsequently remained in Bergamo and agreed to extend his Atalanta contract until 2031.
Speaking ahead of Atalanta’s Conference League play-off against Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Ederson admitted that he still does not fully understand why the transfer collapsed.
“I am very happy to remain with Atalanta. I really thank the club and Luca Percassi. They called me many times, and I felt they were by my side. Even though I had interest from other clubs, after everything that happened, I thought it was best to stick with who really wanted me, and that was always Atalanta. I was happy to wear the jersey that has given me so much joy,” he said.
The failed transfer came as a surprise given Ederson’s consistent performances in Serie A and his history of regular appearances without significant fitness concerns. Manchester United’s reported medical reservations over his knee ultimately prevented the move from going through, although the circumstances led to speculation about whether the club’s recruitment plans had changed.
Ederson said he was equally confused by the outcome, insisting that he had passed his previous examinations and had remained fit throughout his time with Atalanta.
“I honestly don’t know what happened. I always had interest from other clubs, and I could’ve gone to another English side. The tests went well; I don’t know what changed. I’ve been with Atalanta for four years and always played,” he explained.
Rather than allowing the disappointment to derail him, the midfielder said his relationship with Atalanta ultimately convinced him to remain with the club.
“I could’ve just waited to see what happened, but the great rapport with the club convinced me to stay and sign a new contract.”
Ederson now appears fully focused on the season ahead. He made 41 appearances across all competitions for Atalanta last season, scoring three goals and providing two assists. He also featured twice as a substitute for Brazil against Haiti and Norway during the World Cup.
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events, the midfielder said returning to Atalanta with the right mindset was important after the failed transfer.
“I had lovely moments going to the World Cup with Brazil, and then… I still don’t know what happened to be honest, but the important thing is that I was able to deal with the situation, return with the right mentality and give my all to the club that gave me so much. I am still Ederson; everyone knows me here and what I can do, and they know I will always give my all,” he stated.
Atalanta have welcomed his decision to remain at the club, with director Cristiano Giuntoli even describing the midfielder as their best addition of the summer despite his familiarity with the squad.
For Ederson, however, the focus is not on being treated like a new arrival. After four years at the club and the collapse of his proposed move to Manchester United, he remains committed to the team that has become a major part of his career.
“I thank the fans; they are always so passionate and stand by you, in good and bad moments. We won the Europa League, had great results, they know me,” he said.
“I don’t see myself as a new signing; I have always been an Atalanta player.”