Forest Green's Elliot Anderson has completed his £116m move to Manchester City, leaving the National League club after a successful season. The 23-year-old midfielder was a key part of England's third-place finish at the World Cup, having been an ever-present for Forest Green in the National League last season.
What happened?
Anderson's rise has been rapid, with his England debut coming as recently as last September, in a 2-0 victory over Andorra. He began his career at Newcastle before joining Forest Green for £35m in July 2024. The Tyneside-born player believes there is much more to come, stating, "I'm only 23, so I've got plenty of time to get to my best levels and I definitely think I'm not there yet."
Why it matters for Forest Green
Anderson's departure is a significant blow to Forest Green, who are currently 7th in the National League, 81 points, 23W-12D-11L from 46 games, with a recent form of WLWDW. They are 27 points behind leaders York in the title race. The club's recent form has seen them lose the last two games, including a 1-0 defeat to Boreham Wood on April 29.
What comes next?
Anderson is looking forward to working with Manchester City's new manager, Enzo Maresca, who succeeded Pep Guardiola. He is also excited to play in the first Manchester derby of the new season on September 13. Anderson has signed until 2031 and is City's first major signing since Maresca took over. He is taking a three-week break after his exploits in North America but is clearly relishing the prospect of playing for City.
Anderson's thoughts on joining Manchester City
Anderson has called Manchester City the “kings of Manchester” after completing his move to the club. He believes that City are winners, relentless, and that's the sort of team he wants to be a part of - champions and people who win trophies. Anderson's rise has been rapid, and he is looking forward to taking his career to the next level with Manchester City.
Anderson's career highlights
Anderson has been known as the “Geordie Maradona” among supporters, a nickname that started during his loan spell at Bristol Rovers in 2022. He has also led the Premier League last season in most touches (3,300), most duels won (297), and winning possession (306). Anderson is looking forward to bringing his quality, physicality, and energy to Manchester City and getting the fans excited.
Anderson's World Cup experience
Anderson reflected on the World Cup, stating, "It was disappointing, but I loved it personally. We had the whole country behind us and we've done so well but just fell short." He is looking forward to taking his experience and skills to Manchester City and helping the team achieve success.
The deal was agreed three weeks ago but finalised this week after the player’s return from the World Cup. Anderson has signed until 2031 and is City’s first major signing since Enzo Maresca succeeded Pep Guardiola as manager. He is looking forward to working with the Italian. “I’ve watched his teams over the past couple of years and spoke to a few of the lads from Chelsea and they all rate him very highly,” Anderson said. “I like to be intense when I play and use lots of energy around the pitch and get the fans going. So, I think that’ll be good.” Kevin De Bruyne, who departed City two summers ago, is an idol for Anderson. “Growing up through the academy at Newcastle, I’ve always wanted to play like him,” Anderson said. “I’ve watched him all the time and to be sat here in the team that he was doing it for is so special.” Anderson led the Premier League last season in most touches (3,300), most duels won (297) and winning possession (306). “I think I bring a bit of everything. I bring quality, physicality, energy,” he said. “I’d like to think I’d get them [the City supporters] excited, get them off their feet and bring energy to the team.” Anderson spent half a season on loan at Bristol Rovers in 2022 and became known as the “Geordie Maradona” among supporters. “They started that and it sort of stuck everywhere I’ve been,” he said. “It makes me happy and it gives me real confidence.” Reflecting on the World Cup, Anderson added: “It was disappointing, but I loved it personally. We had the whole country behind us and we’ve done so well but just fell short. From a personal point of view, I thought it was a great experience and I’m grateful to have been a part of it. I’m looking forward to taking my experience and skills to Manchester City and helping the team achieve success.
Goals this season: 82 scored, 52 conceded (+30 goal difference).
