Manchester City winger Iliman Ndiaye has said he could not turn down the move to the Etihad after joining from Everton on transfer deadline day, insisting that playing Champions League football at one of the world's best clubs is where he belongs. The 26-year-old had appeared close to joining Tottenham after they agreed a deal with Everton, but the move collapsed when Spurs failed to sell Richarlison, clearing the way for City to step in.

Ndiaye completed a £60m switch to City and was immediately named in the starting line-up for a 1-0 Premier League win over Coventry, during which he attempted more dribbles than any other player. He had joined Everton for £15m in 2024 and became a fan favourite over two seasons, scoring 17 goals despite the club finishing in the bottom half of the table, and his career path has taken him from non-league sides Boreham Wood and Hyde United through Sheffield United and Marseille before his rise to the top flight.