By Joseph Armstrong-Gardner
Image Credit: Getty Images
Elliot Anderson says he was “determined to make this move happen” after Manchester City confirmed his arrival on a five-year deal.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who joins from Nottingham Forest, has signed a contract which runs until June 2031.
The transfer was officially completed when Anderson was still playing for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup; the deal was poised to make Anderson the most expensive player in British Football history but has since been eclipsed by Morgan Rogers’ £117m transfer from Aston Villa to Chelsea.
Anderson says there was no hesitation when he was presented with the opportunity to join “one of the biggest clubs in the world”.
“As soon as I knew [City] wanted me, I was absolutely determined to make this move happen,” Anderson said.
“You want to test yourself at the highest level. Being at City means I have that opportunity.”
“As soon as I arrive in Manchester after a break, I will be doing everything I can to establish myself in the City team.”
After joining Nottingham Forrest for £35 million in 2024 from Newcastle United, Anderson became a crucial player for Forrest helping them finish 7th in the Premier League and secure European football for the first time in 30 years.
Forrest went on to reach the Europa League semi-finals with assistance from Eliot Anderson throughout the tournament.
It must also be noted that Anderson was a driving force for Thomas Tuchel’s England after playing every single game in the World Cup.
Image Credit: Getty Images
He will join a team led by former Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca, who arrived in June after Pep Guardiola stepped down as City manager after 10 years in charge.
“They’re winners, they’re relentless, and that’s the sort of team I want to be a part of – champions and people who win trophies,” Anderson said.
“Over the last 10, 12 years, they’ve dominated, so that’s why I wanted to join.”
City director of football Hugo Viana described Anderson as “one of the outstanding young midfield talents in the world”.
“He offers energy, outstanding work rate and an exceptional range of passing. His improvement in recent years has been really impressive and underlines his desire to be the best player he can be,” Viana said.
“At just 23, there is plenty of opportunity for development over the coming years and we feel he can become a complete midfielder.”