Iliman Ndiaye insists there was only one answer when Manchester City made their move — and that answer was yes. The Senegalese winger completed a £60 million switch from Everton to City on transfer deadline day, and he wasted no time making an impression, starting in a 1-0 Premier League victory over Coventry at the weekend.

"I was just being patient and when City came through I was buzzing," said Ndiaye. "It was always going to be City. I wanted Champions League and playing at one of the best teams in the world. When Manchester City comes through you don't say no."

The Tottenham Hotspur twist

In the closing days of the transfer window, it had seemed Ndiaye was bound for Tottenham Hotspur, who had agreed terms with Everton. However, Spurs were unable to finalise the deal after failing to sell Richarlison, leaving the door open for Manchester City to swoop.

Ndiaye was unfazed by the uncertainty. "There was no stress or panicking," he said. "I always say whatever comes, comes. God decides your future — it is already written."

An emotional farewell to Everton

Despite Everton spending both of Ndiaye's seasons at the club in the bottom half of the Premier League, the 26-year-old became a firm favourite on Merseyside, contributing 17 goals and earning the admiration of supporters with his flair on the flanks.

"It was difficult to leave Everton," he admitted. "I created a great connection with the fans and the players there, but we have to move on sometimes and it's how football is."

The move had been a priority for Ndiaye, who discussed it openly with his wife. "I was telling her that if I had to leave Everton it would be somewhere where I know I would be playing Champions League," he said.

A journey from non-league to the Champions League

Ndiaye's rise has been a remarkable one. He began his professional career in non-league football with Boreham Wood, and seven years ago was playing for Hyde United — a club located just seven miles from the Etihad Stadium. From there, he progressed through the Championship with Sheffield United, spent a season at Marseille, and then joined Everton for £15 million in 2024.

"I don't really look back. I just look to the future and work hard," said Ndiaye. "I never stop. I just look at the next step and this is a big step — joining Manchester City. It is one of the biggest clubs in the world. There are world-class players, a world-class stadium, and the fans are brilliant. This is where I think I belong. I have worked hard to get to this point."