Revealed: Why Ederson is dropped for Manchester City vs West Ham United

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed why mainstay goalkeeper Ederson has been dropped to the bench for the clash against West Ham.

City will look to return to the top of the Premier League with a win over David Moyes’ side at the Etihad Stadium, after Arsenal snatched top-spot perhaps temporarily through a 3-1 win over Chelsea on Tuesday night.

Last time out against West Ham, an Erling Haaland brace on his Premier League debut secured all three points at the London Stadium – one goal from the penalty spot, and one through excellent link-up with Kevin De Bruyne.

In significant team news ahead of kick-off between Manchester City and West Ham, Ederson has been placed on the bench, with German stopper and regular cup starter Stefan Ortega Moreno taking the starting role.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the clash at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, Pep Guardiola explained on his decision, “To rest a little bit. So (we have/had) a lot of games. For the mentality, to take a rest is good.”

He continued, “We have a lot of confidence with Stefan (Ortega), and try for everyone to be involved.”

Pep Guardiola also offered some encouragement when it comes to the fitness and recovery of Kevin De Bruyne, as the Belgian midfielder misses his second consecutive Manchester City match due to injury and an overall lack of match sharpness.

“He feels better,” said Guardiola ahead of Manchester City against West Ham, before stating that ‘he hopes’ his vice-captain will return for the weekend’s contest against Sam Allardyce’s Leeds United.

A win for Manchester City over West Ham will take them one points above Arsenal, while another win over Leeds on Saturday afternoon could move them to four points clear before Mikel Arteta’s side play against.

The Gunners travel to face Newcastle United at St James Park on Sunday afternoon is what has the potential to be a major moment in both the Premier League title race, and race for the Champions League positions.