Southampton Coach Confirms Daniel Peretz as First-Choice Goalkeeper Over Aaron Ramsdale

Southampton manager Tonda Akert has confirmed that Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz is the club's undisputed first-choice keeper following his successful half-season on loan and subsequent permanent transfer from Bayern Munich. Akert clarified the goalkeeper hierarchy at Southampton, stating that Peretz was signed as the primary goalkeeper, with George Long as the backup, and that he personally communicated this to Aaron Ramsdale.

Ramsdale, 28, who spent the previous season on loan at Newcastle United playing in the Champions League, has accepted that his future lies away from Southampton. The former England international unusually requested to play for the club's under-21 team to maintain match sharpness, which Akert praised as a professional attitude. Ramsdale, acquired in 2024 for £18 million, was not included in Southampton's preseason matches and is now officially stepping aside.

This announcement comes just before Southampton's Championship match against Stoke City, where Peretz is expected to start. Akert emphasized the clarity of the situation since his arrival and the club's full support for Peretz as their main goalkeeper.