Manchester City have bid farewell to one of their Treble winners and a focal point of their fourth Premier League title in a row through Stefan Ortega Moreno.
The Germany international departs the Etihad Stadium having carved out a reputation as one of the most reliable and trusted deputies in European football, stepping in seamlessly whenever required during one of the most successful periods in the club's history.
While often operating away from the spotlight, Stefan Ortega's contributions were repeatedly decisive, earning him enormous respect inside the Manchester City dressing room and among supporters.
Since arriving in Manchester, Ortega played a key role in sustaining the elite standards demanded under Pep Guardiola through domestic cup runs, league fixtures, and rotation across a congested calendar.
The 33-year-old's calm distribution, sharp reflexes, and professionalism made him an ideal fit for Guardiola's system and dressing room culture, even as opportunities remained limited behind an established No.1 – and this season as fourth choice.
Ortega had been holding exploratory talks with several clubs following the turn of the year, with City open to facilitating a move, and Nottingham Forest emerged late as serious contenders, accelerating discussions.
Now, following a hugely successful period in the North-West of England, Stefan Ortega Moreno has made the move to the City Ground in an initial free transfer on a contract until the end of the season, with the deal potentially rising to £500,000 depending on achievements.
Speaking glowingly on his time at Manchester City, Ortega Moreno told the club's official website, "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Manchester City. I leave here as a better goalkeeper and with so many experiences that helped me grown as a person.
"To have been involved in such an historic period of the Club is a huge source of pride and I have made memories I'll never forget. The Treble year was the greatest season in City's history, and then to become the first team to win four titles in a row was incredible. I am so proud of what I produced on the pitch when called upon.
"I want to thank all – and I mean all – the people at Manchester City. And I want to send a big hug to the City fans because I have felt amazing support from my first day here. I will now start a new chapter of my career, but Manchester City will always remain close to my heart."
Offering his own thoughts on the Germany international's time at the club, sporting director Hugo Viana said, "Stefan has been an amazing goalkeeper for Manchester City, and his contribution will stand the test of time.
"To win so many trophies in a short space of time, you need a full squad of players ready to perform at the highest level. In Stefan, this Club had that. Without him a lot of what City achieved during his time here simply isn't possible -and his save away at Tottenham is now part of Manchester City's rich history.
"Stefan is a fine professional and I know he will now go on and have continued success in the remainder of his career."
Stefan Ortega's departure represents the closing of a hugely successful chapter while also reinforcing a clear direction in the goalkeeping department, with Gianluigi Donnarumma established as first choice and James Trafford viewed as a long-term pillar of the squad despite doubts over whether he will remain satisfied as a back-up for much longer.
For Nottingham Forest, the signing brings proven Premier League pedigree and elite-level experience at a crucial stage of the season under Sean Dyche, as those at the City Ground retain high hopes of a push for continental success.
