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Guardiola: Steffen ready to compete for Ederson’s starting job

The American has impressed in his relief role.

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Manchester United v Manchester City - Carabao Cup Semi Final Photo by Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

Zack Steffen’s playing career at Manchester City is off to a very nice start, enough to draw rave reviews from Pep Guardiola.

The USMNT goalkeeper has recently been forced into the spotlight due to City starter Ederson being sidelined with COVID-19. Steffen has featured as the starter in a couple of high profile matches against Chelsea and Manchester United, both of which his side came out victorious in.

Guardiola, who many consider one of the best managers in the world over the last decade, has revealed just how pleased he has been with the U.S. international’s relief efforts.

“He can fight for No.1,” the Spaniard told mancity.com.

“He can put pressure on Eddie, but Eddie is the No.1 in this position right now. If he performs well, he stays No.1.

“But we cannot forget [Steffen] played at Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford and solved all the situations he faced brilliantly.”

While it seems the starting job is still out of reach for now, Steffen has done very well to raise his personal stock within his manager’s eyes. That can only mean good things for his future at the club.