Zack Steffen admits relief at signing new Man City contract

Manchester City goalkeeper Zack Steffen has reflected on the relief at signing a long-term contract extension earlier this season.

Steffen, 26, is City's second-choice goalkeeper behind Ederson, and has proved a reliable back-up as well as a solid option to play in the domestic cup competitions.

The US Men's National Team goalkeeper signed for City in 2019 from Columbus Crew, before spending a year on loan at Fortuna Dusseldorf in Germany. For the last two years, he has been an able deputy for Ederson and has 20 appearances for City in total.

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Despite that relatively small number of outings, Steffen has conducted himself well enough to earn a new contract this season, putting pen to paper on a deal until 2025 back in November. A frustrating injury has followed that high point, but he is now back and looking to help City in their quest for Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup success.

Reflecting on the ups and downs of this season, Steffen has told the SoccerBible Podcast that he felt relief when he signed his new deal as he explained why he values the stability of staying at one club for multiple seasons.

"Injuries are always tough. As athletes injuries are part of the game," he said.

"When you’re not part of the team, not in team meetings or travelling with the team or in training so it does feel like you’re not part of the team at the moment. It’s very tough, but signing a new contract is a big privilege and a very proud moment because it says that they like me here and what I’m doing and that they want to continue.

"That’s a relief for myself and it makes you feel good. At the end of the day it’s also a