Football

Elliot Anderson Embraces Manchester City Move and Derby Ambitions

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 4, 2026, 00:36 IST

New Manchester City signing Elliot Anderson discusses his transition to the club, his admiration for manager Enzo Maresca, and his excitement ahead of his first experience in the high-stakes Manchester derby.

Elliot Anderson Embraces Manchester City Move and Derby Ambitions

Elliot Anderson has officially begun his tenure at Manchester City, marking a significant step in his career following a standout 2025-26 Premier League campaign. The 23-year-old midfielder, who led the league with 3,323 touches last season, is preparing for his first taste of the Manchester derby, a fixture he views as one of the most prestigious in global football.

The move to the Etihad Stadium represents a new chapter for the midfielder, who has expressed his admiration for the club's winning culture. Anderson highlighted the relentless nature of the squad as a primary factor in his decision to join, noting his eagerness to contribute to a team consistently competing for major trophies.

A New Chapter Under Maresca

A key element of Anderson's transition is the opportunity to work under manager Enzo Maresca. The midfielder revealed that he has closely followed the coach's tactical progress over the past few seasons. His decision was further solidified by positive feedback from players who previously worked with the manager at Chelsea, all of whom spoke highly of his methods.

Reflecting on his rapid rise to the top of the English game, Anderson admitted that while the speed of his progression has been somewhat surprising, he has always maintained the self-belief required to reach this level. He remains focused on continuing his development and helping the club maintain its competitive edge.

Derby Anticipation and Influences

Looking ahead to the upcoming Manchester derby on September 13, Anderson expressed his respect for the rivalry. Having observed the shift in power within the city for years, he stated that Manchester City has established itself as the dominant force in the region, a status he is now proud to uphold as a player.

The midfielder also touched upon the influence of Kevin De Bruyne, a player he has studied extensively since his time in the Newcastle academy. Describing the Belgian international as a role model, Anderson noted that joining the same team where De Bruyne has achieved so much is a special milestone in his professional journey. Fans can catch the Manchester derby live on September 13, with coverage starting at 9 PM on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network.