Iliman Ndiaye says Manchester City move fulfils dream of playing at the highest level

Iliman Ndiaye says joining Manchester City has fulfilled his ambition of playing at the highest level, although he admits leaving Everton was emotionally difficult.

The Senegal international said he was delighted with the start of his career at his new club after Manchester City opened with victory against Coventry City. He also reflected on the personal connection he had developed with Everton, where one of his daughters was born.

Manchester City beat Everton 1-0 in the third round of the Premier League, with Erling Haaland scoring the only goal. The result moved City on to nine points at the top of the table, while Coventry City remain without a point in 19th place.

Speaking to BBC radio, Ndiaye said: “It was a very good game. We started with a win, so things could not have been better. I was very happy and, of course, we wanted to win by more, but it was a difficult match.”

Ndiaye said he had quickly settled into life at Manchester City after completing his move.

“As we said to each other, every game is going to be difficult,” he added. “The past few days have been very good. I am now a Manchester City player, so I am happy. I am pleased to have completed the transfer and the players welcomed me brilliantly.”

The Senegal forward acknowledged that departing Everton had been a particularly challenging decision because of his relationship with the club’s supporters and his family’s ties to the area.

“It was difficult,” he said. “The fans were important to me and one of my daughters was born there, so leaving was hard, but that is football.”

Ndiaye said the move represented the reward for a long-term ambition to test himself among the best players in the game.

“I said I wanted to play at the highest level, in the biggest leagues and in the Champions League,” he said. “I have worked hard since I was young and, finally, I have reached this moment. I will not stop here; this is only the beginning.”

Haaland’s goal against Everton was a landmark moment for the Norway striker, who reached 300 career goals at club level.

Ndiaye also praised manager Enzo Maresca and expressed his excitement about what lies ahead.

“Things have been great,” he said. “He is a top-class manager and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for us.”

The opening victory gave Manchester City an ideal start to the campaign, while Ndiaye’s comments underlined both the professional opportunity created by his move and the personal cost of leaving Everton.