Manchester United might have pulled off a transfer masterstroke after a timely World Cup twist. Ederson, who recently signed for the Red Devils, has been called up to Brazil's squad for the World Cup, just days after his move to Old Trafford was confirmed.
Ederson's Brazil Return
Ederson, who had been overlooked by Brazil for 16 months and earned only three caps during his impressive four-year stint at Atalanta, was parachuted into the World Cup squad on Sunday. This came just five days after Manchester United confirmed a £38.3 million deal for the midfielder. The 27-year-old's potential move to one of the world's biggest clubs may have reminded Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti of his qualities, especially after Ancelotti had previously preferred 32-year-old Fabinho, who has spent three years in Saudi Arabia, and former Nottingham Forest midfielder Danilo, now playing for Botafogo.
Opportunity Arises
An injury to full-back Wesley opened the door for Ederson's late call-up. The fact that Ancelotti chose a midfielder to replace a defender suggests he realizes the need for different options in midfield and now values the all-action, energetic style Ederson brings. Ederson has played just 107 minutes for Brazil across three appearances: two friendlies in June and July 2024, and a World Cup qualifier against Argentina in 2025. This tournament presents a major opportunity for him to force his way into Ancelotti's plans.
Potential Impact at Manchester United
Ederson might even get the chance to play alongside Casemiro, the man he is potentially replacing at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old Casemiro remains a key figure for Brazil, and Bruno Guimaraes is another guaranteed starter in midfield. However, there is one more slot to fill, and Lucas Paqueta appears the most likely starter, but competition is not intense. With potentially eight games if Brazil go all the way, Ederson is bound to get playing time.
Manchester United can feel relieved to have secured a deal for Ederson last week. After Atletico Madrid pulled out of the race, United had a clear run and agreed an initial £35 million fee with Atalanta. Ederson will sign a contract until 2030, with an option for a further year. He had just one year left on his contract with the Serie A side and showed no intention of extending, weakening Atalanta's negotiating position. A World Cup call-up and the chance to shine in North America could have sparked a bidding war, but United have no such worries now.
What Lies Ahead
United will finalize the deal after the tournament, once Ederson completes his medical. Supporters can now get a glimpse of him on the world stage, seeing how he performs under pressure for one of the most glamorous national teams. There are more transfer dominoes to fall in midfield at Old Trafford, with United also interested in Mateus Fernandes and potentially signing two or three players in that position. Who will ultimately fill Casemiro's boots remains to be seen, but this is Ederson's chance to show that his relatively low fee does not mean he is merely a squad option. If he shines alongside the player he could replace, it will only strengthen his case when he finally arrives at Carrington.
