‘Nothing else that I wanted’ – Iliman Ndiaye opens up on Man City move

Iliman Ndiaye says joining Manchester City was an easy decision after the Premier League champions moved for him on transfer deadline day.

The Senegal winger ended his spell at Everton despite having rejected several contract offers from the club over the past year, with interest from Tottenham also emerging before City made their move.

Ndiaye revealed that he had no hesitation once City presented their project, despite having also held talks with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal earlier in the summer.

“It’s easy to make the decision about whether you want to be at Manchester City or not,” Ndiaye stated. “You can see the recent history; you want to be part of that project.”

The 25-year-old said City’s plans for him further convinced him that a move to the Etihad was the right step in his career.

“They talked to me about where we could go, what we could achieve with me in the team, and I was interested from the beginning,” he explained. “There was nothing else that I wanted other than joining Manchester City.”

Ndiaye excited by City’s new project

Ndiaye believes his qualities will suit the direction of Pep Guardiola’s side as he begins the next chapter of his career.

“Obviously, you want to be part of this new project. I’ve seen recently what they’ve been doing, and I feel like I will fit right in it,” he said.

“I’m super excited to start. It’s an unbelievable moment. I’ve worked so hard to get to this point and I’m super excited and really grateful for this opportunity.”

His arrival brings an end to a two-year spell at Everton, where he made 74 appearances and scored 17 goals while providing four assists.

Ndiaye enjoyed his most productive campaign last season under David Moyes, contributing six goals and three assists as he became an increasingly important attacking option for the Toffees.

However, his decision not to extend his stay at Goodison Park ultimately opened the door for City to secure his signature.

Deadline day deal adds to City spending spree

Ndiaye’s transfer was completed on a remarkable deadline day for City, who also agreed a joint-British record £125 million deal for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

The double swoop underlined the club’s determination to strengthen their squad, with Ndiaye now set to compete for opportunities in an attack packed with established talent.

Both Ndiaye and Fernandez could make their City debuts this weekend when Guardiola’s side travel to face Coventry City on Saturday afternoon.

After choosing City ahead of other options, Ndiaye will now look to turn his excitement into performances as he begins life at one of Europe’s most ambitious clubs.