Anderson hails Man City as ‘kings of Manchester’ after £116m switch

England midfielder Elliot Anderson has described Manchester City as the “kings of Manchester” after completing his reported £116 million move from Nottingham Forest.

City confirmed on Thursday that the 23-year-old had signed a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium, with the club holding the option to extend the deal by a further year.

The transfer, agreed earlier this month, was finalised after Anderson returned from international duty at the FIFA World Cup.

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Expressing his excitement, Anderson said he was thrilled to join one of the world’s biggest clubs.

“I’m over the moon. I can’t wait to play for this club. It’s built to win trophies and compete at the very top of the game, and that’s exciting for any footballer,” he said.

“I think 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 is already looking forward 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,” he added.

Anderson came through Newcastle United’s academy before making 55 senior appearances for his boyhood club. He joined Nottingham Forest in a reported £35 million deal two years ago and went on to feature 92 times for the club.

His impressive performances earned him his first England call-up last season, and he became an important member of Thomas Tuchel’s squad that finished third at the World Cup.

“I’m only 23, so I’ve got plenty of time to improve. I’m definitely not at my best level yet, and there’s more to come from me,” Anderson said.

“I think I bring a bit of everything—quality, physicality and energy. I want to excite the fans and contribute to the team’s success.”

City director of football Hugo Viana welcomed the signing, describing Anderson as one of the game’s brightest young midfielders.

“Elliot is one of the outstanding young midfield talents in world football. We believe he has all the attributes to become a complete midfielder,” Viana said.

Anderson’s arrival comes just days after fellow England international Morgan Rogers completed a reported £117 million move from Aston Villa to Chelsea, setting a new British transfer record.