Ndiaye: You Don’t Say No to Manchester City

Iliman Ndiaye has revealed that joining Manchester City was the natural choice, stating that players do not turn down an offer from the Premier League champions. The 26-year-old midfielder completed a £60m transfer from Everton on deadline day, ending speculation that he might instead move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Ndiaye was immediately handed a starting role for City’s season-opening 1-0 victory over Coventry City, where he attempted eight dribbles, the most by any player on the pitch. His move came after Tottenham’s bid collapsed due to their own failure to sell Richarlison.

“There was no stress or panicking,” Ndiaye said. “I always say whatever comes, comes. God decides your future – it is already written. I was just being patient and when City came through I was buzzing. It was always going to be City.”

The French international emphasized that playing in the Champions League was a priority. “I wanted Champions League and playing at one of the best teams in the world. I am not saying Tottenham is not, but when Manchester City comes through you don’t say no,” he added.

Ndiaye leaves Everton having scored 17 goals and winning over supporters despite the club’s mid-to-lower table finishes in his two seasons. He reflected on his time at Goodison Park: “It was difficult to leave Everton. I created a great connection with the fans and the players there, but we have to move on sometimes and it’s how football is. When I was speaking with my wife, I was telling her that if I had to leave, it would be somewhere where I know I would be playing Champions League.”

His journey to the Etihad has been non-linear, beginning in non-league football with Boreham Wood and Hyde United before spells at Sheffield United and Marseille. Ndiaye joined Everton from Marseille for £15m in 2024.

“I don’t really look back. I just look to the future and work hard. I never stop,” he said. “This is where I think I belong. I have worked hard to get to this point.”