Elliot Anderson’s value skyrocketed, and massive expectations followed his £116m transfer from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City this summer.
The 24‑year‑old has quickly become a Premier League standout and a vital asset for England after helping Tuchel’s squad secure third at the World Cup.
His stellar displays for Forest attracted interest from United and Arsenal before the Etihad deal materialised.
Guillem Balague revealed on BBC Match of the Day he asked City boss Enzo Maresca about signing Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
Maresca replied, “No, Anderson will be England’s key player, not just City’s.”
“It’s bittersweet to see him leave, but we’re proud of the player he’s become.”
While few Forest supporters begrudge the £116m fee, the real question is whether Anderson is living up to the hype at City.
Anderson ranked among the Premier League’s top central midfielders last campaign.
He led categories like ball touches, possession wins, duel contests and fouls drawn.
His impact shone even as Forest battled four managers and hovered just five points above relegation.
His relentless work‑rate has effectively swapped in for Bernardo Silva and Rodri at a double‑trophy‑winning side.
Although he hasn’t matched his league‑leading stats yet, his underlying figures stay elite.
He drew a league‑high 28 fouls, sits second in duels won (66) and third in successful passes (610) and touches (851).
Only Jan Paul van Hecke and Declan Rice logged more opposition‑half passes, yet Anderson played at least 66 minutes fewer.
In a deeper‑lying No.6 role he has one goal, two assists in 14 games, but supplied Haaland’s Champions League winner versus Leipzig.
“He’s been amazing,” Haaland praised. “A strong start is exactly what you expect.”
“Adapting isn’t easy, yet he’s impressed. Respect.”
‘Forest fans would have him back in a heartbeat’
During Tuesday’s media‑open training before Leipzig, teammates relaxed in groups while Anderson focused on solo kick‑ups.
That focus hints at a steely determination to give his all, whether in practice or match intensity.
He led a slalom drill, then smashed a finish into a mini‑net, earning the winner’s badge.
“He wants to learn, improve – a manager’s dream.”
Molloson added, “His game reading and midfield dominance are brilliant; he’s still young with much more to offer.”
“A pitch leader, phenomenal – Forest fans would take him back instantly.”
‘I’ve got to be more structured, that’s what I’m learning’
Maresca recognises Anderson’s box‑to‑box traits but slots him as City’s No.6, a role that differs from his Forest duties.
After City’s 4‑1 win over Palace, Anderson admitted, “I’m loving it, but I’m learning to be more structured than at Forest.”
His physicality, intensity and intelligence make him a front‑foot midfielder who can press high, win the ball and launch attacks.
His assist for Haaland’s Leipzig winner showcased a de Bruyne‑style drive and cross.
Those same qualities can be exploited at times.
He often reacts instinctively, winning duels, prompting opponents to crowd near him before pulling away.
Sunderland’s Enzo le Fee ran constant off‑ball runs in September, forcing Anderson to track him and open space behind City’s defence.
PSG and Brighton also used decoy runs to drag Anderson out, creating midfield gaps.
Ayyoub Bouaddi has been trialled alongside him, offering a temporary shield when Anderson presses forward.
In 2021 Guardiola warned Rodri to stay put; by 2024 Rodri lifted the Ballon d’Or.
City will be pleased with Anderson’s quality; his debut season already eclipses Rodri’s 2020 start, though both will seek sharper positional sense.