"Pep says it isn't because of his form but I think it is" - Roy Keane suggests Guardiola lied about Manchester City star before Liverpool clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola made waves ahead of his team’s high-stakes clash with Liverpool by benching regular goalkeeper Ederson in favor of Stefan Ortega. The decision, a rare move by the Spaniard, comes amidst a challenging period for the Premier League champions, who are enduring their worst run under Guardiola’s tenure.

Ederson, a near-untouchable presence in City’s goal since joining from Benfica in 2017, has been the backbone of Guardiola’s system for years. However, Guardiola’s choice to leave him out for the trip to Anfield marks a significant shake-up as the manager looks to address the team’s defensive frailties.

Speaking to Sky Sports before the match, Guardiola downplayed the decision as a reflection of form, saying:

"We just wanted to change something. Eddy has saved a lot of goals for us. He’s saved one-on-ones many, many times — but I decided to pick Stefan today."

The change comes at a critical juncture, with City having conceded 15 goals in their last five matches across all competitions. Three consecutive Premier League losses—notably a humiliating 4-0 defeat at home to Tottenham—have seen the reigning champions slip into uncharted territory.

Their struggles extend beyond domestic competitions, with European performances leaving much to be desired. Last month, City were thrashed 4-1 by Sporting and then squandered a 3-0 lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord.

Among those supporting Guardiola’s gamble was Roy Keane, who praised the move and hinted it might be a wake-up call for Ederson. Here's what the former Manchester United icon said on Sky Sports:

"Sometimes as a manager you have to make changes. Pep says it isn’t because of his form, but I think it is. The keeper hasn’t been great, and Ortega, when he has played before, has not let City down. He produced some huge moments last season. What a game for him to come into. It’s a big call, but I think it is the right one."

Despite Guardiola’s vote of confidence in Ederson, the Brazilian has faced criticism following a string of underwhelming performances. While he had started all 12 of City’s Premier League games this season prior to the Liverpool clash, his place in the side has come under scrutiny.

Ortega, typically a backup option, has shown his capabilities in domestic and European matches, and his inclusion signals Guardiola’s willingness to take risks to rectify City’s faltering campaign.

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Pep Guardiola's cheeky gesture following Liverpool fans singing 'sacked in the morning'

Things haven't gone well for the defending champions in the last few weeks. Manchester City would've hoped for another successful season after Rodri won the Ballon d'Or and Pep Guardiola signed a two-year contract extension.

Going into their game against Liverpool, the Cityzens were winless in their last six games, losing five of those. However, things took a turn for the worse when Cody Gakpo found the back of the net in the 12th minute.

Mohamed Salah slotted home a penalty in the 78th minute to give Liverpool an unassailable lead. Interestingly, Liverpool supporters started chanting 'You're getting sacked in the morning' in the dying embers of the game, in a rather cheeky dig at the City boss.

The reaction didn't sit well with the former Barcelona manager, who took a dig of his own. Guardiola held up six fingers, reminding the Kop that he has won six Premier League titles with City.

The Cityzens find themselves in the fifth spot on the Premier League table, 11 points adrift of runaway leaders Liverpool. Liverpool sit nine points clear with 34 points after 13 games. The Reds play Newcastle United on December 4, while the reigning champions take on Nottingham Forest on the same day.