Elliot Anderson has completed his record-breaking transfer to Manchester City for £116 million, describing the club as “the kings of Manchester” upon joining. The midfielder’s move from Nottingham Forest represents one of football’s most expensive deals, though he has quickly become the second most expensive British player after Chelsea’s Morgan Rogers joined for £117 million this summer.
Anderson’s decision to join City was heavily influenced by the club’s storied history and recent dominance. He recalled watching Sergio Aguero’s iconic 94th-minute goal that secured the 2011-12 Premier League title when he was around nine years old, and has followed City’s development over the past decade. The midfielder also cited Kevin De Bruyne as a major inspiration, expressing his excitement at playing in the same position for the same club. Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Anderson emphasized his willingness to perform multiple midfield roles, highlighting the energy and control needed in City’s system.
Anderson’s journey to Manchester has included unexpected drama, including a World Cup quarter-final clash with new teammate Erling Haaland that resulted in a disallowed Norwegian goal. Despite this competitive introduction, the striker has since welcomed Anderson warmly, jokingly calling him a diver to help him settle in. While England’s semi-final defeat to Argentina at the World Cup still stings, Anderson is focused on translating his international experience into domestic success at City.
