Elliot Anderson Reveals Kevin De Bruyne Inspired His Move to Manchester City
New Manchester City signing Elliot Anderson says Kevin De Bruyne has been his football inspiration for years as he begins a new chapter at the Etihad under Enzo Maresca.
• Elliot Anderson officially completed his transfer to Manchester City on a five-year deal.
• Manchester City paid Nottingham Forest £116 million for Anderson, making him the most expensive British transfer in history at the time.
• Anderson revealed that former City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has been his long-standing inspiration.
New Manchester City midfielder Elliot Anderson has revealed that club legend Kevin De Bruyne has been his biggest football inspiration after completing his record-breaking move to the Premier League champions.
The 23-year-old England international joined City from Nottingham Forest on a five-year contract that runs until 2031. The transfer, reported to be worth £116 million, briefly made Anderson the most expensive British footballer before another domestic record deal followed later in the transfer window.
"Kevin De Bruyne is someone I've hugely looked up to over the past seven or eight years. I've always wanted to play like him. I've watched him all the time and to be sat here in the team that he was doing it for is so special."
The midfielder began his career in Newcastle United's academy before establishing himself at Nottingham Forest, where his energetic displays, ball-winning ability and creativity earned widespread praise. His performances also helped him break into England's national team ahead of this summer's World Cup.
Anderson also expressed excitement about beginning work under new Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca, describing the Italian's style of play as one of the reasons he was eager to make the move.
"I've watched his teams over the past couple of years," Anderson said. "I've spoken to a few of the lads who have worked with him and they all speak very highly of him. I'm really looking forward to getting started."
Manchester City view Anderson as one of Europe's brightest young midfielders and expect him to add energy, creativity and defensive intensity to their midfield as the club begins a new era following Kevin De Bruyne's departure.
