EPL: Man City move impossible to turn down — Ndiaye

Manchester City new boy Iliman Ndiaye has revealed that he could not turn down the opportunity to join the Premier League giants, saying the chance to play Champions League football was a major factor in his decision.

The 26-year-old completed a £60 million move from Everton to City on transfer deadline day after Tottenham had initially appeared set to sign him.

Spurs had agreed a deal with Everton, but the transfer collapsed after they were unable to sell Richarlison. City then stepped in with a late approach, and Ndiaye said he was delighted when the opportunity arrived.

As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, the Senegalese was quoted as saying, “There was no stress or panicking.

“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.

“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.”

"Leaving Everton was a challenging decision. I formed a strong bond with both the fans and the players there, but sometimes we must progress, and that is the nature of football," he stated.

Ndiaye transferred to Everton from Marseille for £15 million in 2024, netting 17 goals during his tenure at the club, and he became a beloved figure among the fans, even as Everton finished in the lower half of the Premier League in both seasons.

The Senegal international has experienced a unique career path. He started in non-league football with Boreham Wood before moving to Hyde United, located just seven miles from City’s Etihad Stadium, seven years ago.

Subsequently, he played for Sheffield United in the Championship and spent a season at Marseille before securing his transfer to Everton.

Now, Ndiaye is convinced that his move to City marks the most significant advancement in his career.

“I don’t really look back. I just look to the future and work hard. I never stop,” he said.

“I just look at the next step and this is a big step to join Manchester City.

“It is one of the biggest clubs in the world. There are world-class players, world-class stadium and the fans are brilliant.

“This is where I think I belong. I have worked hard to get to this point.”