Stefan Ortega

German association football player

Stefan Ortega Moreno signed a contract with Nottingham Forest on 1 February 2026, marking another chapter in a professional goalkeeping career that spans European leagues. Born on 6 November 1992 in Hofgeismar, he has represented clubs in Germany, England, and Greece, ultimately establishing a reputation for high-stakes defensive performance in top-flight environments.

Early Career in Germany

Ortega began his development at TSV Jahn Calden before moving through the systems at KSV Baunatal and KSV Hessen Kassel. By 2007, he joined the youth setup at Arminia Bielefeld. His senior debut occurred on 1 October 2011 against 1. FC Heidenheim. Although he experienced periods as a backup, he contributed to the squad's promotion to the 2. Bundesliga by the end of the 2012–13 season. He subsequently moved to 1860 Munich in June 2014, where he transitioned into the role of primary goalkeeper following the departure of Gábor Király. He returned to Arminia after the 2016–17 season, eventually securing promotion to the Bundesliga in 2020.

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Success at Manchester City

In July 2022, Ortega joined Manchester City. He served as a crucial figure in the 2022–23 FA Cup campaign, maintaining a clean sheet record across six matches. His contributions proved vital on 14 May 2024, when he substituted for an injured Ederson against Tottenham Hotspur. His save against Son Heung-min in the 85th minute was instrumental in maintaining City's league position. During his tenure, the club secured multiple Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League trophy, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

International and Recent Activity

Ortega received a call-up to the German U19 national team in 2010. By May 2021, he was identified as a potential reserve for the senior Germany squad for UEFA Euro 2020, contingent upon the availability of Manuel Neuer, Bernd Leno, or Kevin Trapp. He received further senior team call-ups in November 2024 and March 2025. Following his brief stint at Nottingham Forest, where he debuted against Leeds United, he transitioned to the Greek club Olympiacos.

Fast facts

Questions readers ask

Did Stefan Ortega play for the Germany national team?

He was called up to the senior team in November 2024 and March 2025, and was a potential reserve for the UEFA Euro 2020 squad.

Which major trophies has Stefan Ortega won with Manchester City?

His honors include two Premier League titles, the 2022–23 FA Cup, the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League, the 2023 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup.

Achievements

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