England midfielder Elliot Anderson has described Manchester City as the “kings of Manchester” after completing his reported £116 million ($154 million) move from Nottingham Forest.
City confirmed on Thursday that the 23-year-old has signed a five-year contract, with the option of a further 12 months, after finalising the deal following his return from the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after his unveiling, Anderson said he was delighted to join one of the world’s biggest clubs and is eager to contribute to the team’s continued success.
“I’m over the moon to be signing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. I can’t wait to play for this club,” he said.
“It’s a club built to win trophies and compete at the very top. They’re winners, they’re relentless, and that’s the sort of team I want to be part of. Over the last 10 or 12 years, they’ve dominated, so that’s why I wanted to join.”
The midfielder also looked ahead to his first Manchester derby, with City set to face rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on September 13.
“It’s one of the biggest derbies in the world and, for as long as I’ve known Manchester, City have been the kings of Manchester. It’ll be a great fixture and I can’t wait to be involved.”
Anderson rose through the ranks at Newcastle United, making 55 first-team appearances before joining Nottingham Forest in a £35 million move two years ago. During his time at Forest, he made 92 appearances and established himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders.
His impressive performances also earned him his first England call-up, and he became a key member of Thomas Tuchel’s squad that finished third at the FIFA World Cup.
Despite his rapid progress, Anderson believes he still has room to improve.
“I’m only 23, so I’ve got plenty of time to reach my best level. I’m definitely not there yet, and there’s more to come from me.
“I think I bring a bit of everything—quality, physicality and energy. I’d like to excite the fans, get them off their feet and help the team.”
Anderson will join Enzo Maresca’s squad for pre-season training next month, with Manchester City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, describing him as one of the most outstanding young midfield talents in world football.
The transfer comes just days after fellow England midfielder Morgan Rogers completed a reported £117 million move from Aston Villa to Chelsea, setting a new British transfer record.
