The odds on out-of-favour goalkeeper Joe Hart making a shock switch from Manchester City to Sunderland are falling.
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The England worldwide is facing an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium after the 29-year-old was omitted from Pep Guardiola’s starting line-up for their victories over Sunderland and Stoke City in the Premier League. Willy Caballero has started ahead of Hart for City’s first two games in the Premier League.
“Now I will challenge the other great goalkeepers the club has and together I hope we can win many trophies”.
Fans made clear their appreciation of the 29-year-old two-time title-winner throughout but, with the club poised to complete the signing of Claudio Bravo from Barcelona, it could easily have been a farewell. “We have met one of the most powerful teams in Europe and I hope we will have a better route in the Europa League”.
City are delighted to announce the signing of Claudio Bravo.
Cillessen remained with Ajax to take part in their Champions League play-off with Rostov, but the Dutch giants crashed out and the goalkeeper leaves the club after five successful years in Amsterdam. Certainly Hart’s actions after the game in acknowledging the heartfelt backing of fans did little to dispel that theory.
In practice, a goalkeeper of Hart’s calibre shouldn’t be short of suitors.
With the transfer deadline day less than a week away, Hart was asked about his possible destinations to which he replied, “It’s not for me to say”.
Nevertheless, as the transfer window edges to a close, there will surely be a club that’ll see the benefits of spending big on a proven Premier League stopper. That could have ramifications for his England status.
Despite Guardiola’s delight at landing his top choice keeper, Hart’s response losing his place has certainly left England team-mate John Stones impressed.
Guardiola’s final signing was Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo who arrived from Barca on Thursday with the City manager confirming afterwards that he was no longer interested in reinforcing: “No chance, it is enough”.
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“That was a really special night for me”, Joe Hart reflected afterwards. They also gave him a standing ovation them when walking off the field at full time.
