Elliot Anderson took a thinly veiled swipe at Manchester United during his initial interview after completing a move to Manchester City, triggering a fierce response from supporters.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who featured prominently for England during this summer’s World Cup, completed his transfer to the eight-time Premier League champions from Nottingham Forest in a deal valued at £116 million.
In his inaugural interview as a City player, Anderson revealed he was “determined to make this move happen” following interest from several suitors over the summer, including Manchester United.
Manchester United had earmarked Anderson as a priority target leading into the summer window, but balked at Forest’s asking price.
It appears the former Newcastle midfielder was set on heading to the Etihad Stadium. “I can’t wait to play for this club, it’s a club built to win trophies and compete at the very top of the game. That is exciting for any footballer,” he stated.
“I think they’re winners, they’re relentless, and that’s the sort of team I want to be a part of. Over the last 10, 12 years, they’ve dominated, so that’s why I wanted to join.”
Anderson also touched upon the upcoming Manchester derby set for September 13 at Old Trafford, where he is now guaranteed a hostile welcome following his provocative comments.
“For as long as I’ve known Manchester, City have been the kings of Manchester,” he remarked. “It’ll be a great fixture and I can’t wait to be involved in something like that.”
Here is how a section of United supporters responded to Anderson’s statements.
One fan wrote: “This is going to hit when Carrick strikes again in his first Derby,” while another posted: “Hey, Elliot Anderson, just a reminder that football didn’t start in 2011, mate. When you’re done talking, have a look at the trophy cabinet.”
A third fan added: “The last person who spoke like this about United was Cherki and we know what happened.”
A fourth observed: “Only way for City players to get attention is to mention United though, just like Cherki, we’re always the focus,” and a fifth commented: “Funny part is when players join United they don’t have to talk about our noisy neighbors to show they have made the right decision.”
Soon after the transfer was formally announced, Manchester City’s director of football Hugo Viana hailed Anderson as “one of the outstanding young midfield talents in world football right now”.
He added: “He offers energy, outstanding work rate and an exceptional range of passing. His improvement in recent years has been really impressive and underlines his desire to be the best player he can be.
“At just 23, there is plenty of opportunity for development over the coming years and we feel he can become a complete midfielder. Manchester City is the best place for him to develop his game and keep improving, we are glad that he sees things the same way as we do.”
