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£116m City deal
Manchester City officially presented the signing of midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for the next five seasons, with the move completed after his return from the World Cup.
“Elliot Anderson has taunted Manchester United by claiming he has joined the “Kings of Manchester””
The Guardian said Anderson completed his £116m move and called Manchester City the “kings of Manchester” in an interview on City’s website.
Sky Sports reported Anderson has declared City the “kings of Manchester” and that the first Manchester derby of the new season is at Old Trafford on September 13.
Anderson’s deal is described as a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium with an option of a further 12 months, and he is taking a three-week break after his exploits in North America.
The Guardian also noted Anderson was a key part of England’s third-place finish at the World Cup and had been an ever-present for Forest in the Premier League last season.
Derby jibe and quotes
Anderson’s “kings of Manchester” line became the centerpiece of his arrival, with The Guardian quoting him saying, “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.”
Sky Sports framed the signing as sending a message to Manchester United, and it quoted Anderson saying, “It’ll be a great fixture, and I can’t wait to be involved in something like that.”
In his City presentation, BeSoccer ES quoted Anderson saying, “En cuanto supe que estaban interesados en mí, lo puse todo de mi parte para hacer realidad este traspaso”.
The Guardian added that Anderson is relishing the prospect of playing for City and highlighted the date of the derby at Old Trafford on 13 September.
Sky Sports also reported Anderson’s five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium includes an option of a further 12 months, with the deal finalised this week after his World Cup return.
Maresca era and expectations
City’s recruitment is positioned as part of a new managerial chapter, with The Guardian stating Anderson is City’s first major signing since Enzo Maresca succeeded Pep Guardiola as manager.
Sky Sports said Anderson will link up with new manager Enzo Maresca’s squad for pre-season training next month after a summer break following England’s third-place finish.
The Guardian described Anderson’s recent Premier League output for Forest, including leading the league last season in most touches (3,300), most duels won (297) and winning possession (306).
BeSoccer ES quoted Anderson emphasizing the club’s ambition, saying City is “un club diseñado para ganar títulos y competir en lo más alto del fútbol.”
The Guardian also reported Anderson’s contract runs until 2031 and that he is looking forward to working with the Italian, after saying, “I’ve watched his teams over the past couple of years and spoke to a few of the lads from Chelsea and they all rate him very highly.”
