Anderson: Record Fee Doesn't Weigh on Me, I Want a Trophy
Manchester City's new signing, 23-year-old Elliot Anderson, says he's ready to justify the £116 million price tag and make an immediate impact in the hunt for the season's first trophy.
Manchester City's new signing, 23-year-old Elliot Anderson, says he's ready to justify the £116 million price tag and make an immediate impact in the hunt for the season's first trophy.
Elliot Anderson, Manchester City's new signing, said on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, that he is determined to justify his record transfer fee and hopes to make an immediate mark when FA Cup winners City face Premier League champions Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday. The 23-year-old England international joined City from Nottingham Forest in July, and according to British media reports, his transfer could reach £116 million ($156.66 million), making him the second most expensive British player of all time.
Anderson completed his first training session under new manager Enzo Maresca on Wednesday and immediately shared his thoughts with reporters. "I'm over the moon," Anderson said, adding that his teammates have welcomed him brilliantly and that the session went well. He highlighted that Maresca's attention to detail was already evident in the early sessions and that he expects to learn more about his role in the team in the coming weeks.
The midfielder is aware of the pressure that comes with such a hefty price tag, but insists he'll let his performances do the talking. "It's a chance to win a trophy in your first week," Anderson stated, making it clear he's motivated for Sunday's clash with Arsenal. Although he primarily sees himself as a box-to-box midfielder, he believes he can offer much more. "I've got a bit of everything. I can defend well, I can attack, so I'll just try to give everything I've got to help the club," he said.
Manchester City, who finished second in the Premier League last season, will kick off their new campaign on August 23, 2026, against Bournemouth. Anderson stressed that he's trying not to think too much about the transfer fee, but he's confident he can show his best in the upcoming season. "I want to show everyone what I can do. I'm trying not to focus on it too much, but I'm sure that over the next season, I'll be able to show people what I do best," Anderson concluded.