Senior duo back record signing ahead of Etihad arrival

Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic have thrown their weight behind Elliot Anderson, describing Manchester City's record signing as a solid addition to Enzo Maresca's squad. The 23-year-old joined from Nottingham Forest in July for £116 million, a deal that stands as the most significant piece of incoming business at the Etihad this summer.

Anderson, who impressed during England's run to the World Cup semi-finals in North America, remains on post-World Cup rest and is expected to link up with his new teammates in Manchester in a few weeks. He completed the administrative formalities of his move before being granted three weeks off by Maresca ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Speaking about the midfielder, Foden said: "Really excited to have him at the club! When I've watched him or played against him, he likes to find the number 10 and wrap balls through the lines. I think that suits me really well. I'm excited to play with him, and I can't wait!"

Kovacic was equally complimentary, highlighting Anderson's blend of attributes. "A lot of quality, a lot of physicality," the Croatian said. "He's capable of running a lot, good on the ball, good off the ball. He's young so he can improve a lot still at Man City, and I think it's a great signing for us."

The transfer, which underlines the scale of ambition behind Maresca's first summer in charge, nearly fell apart before it was salvaged at a critical moment by CEO Ferran Soriano. Soriano stepped in personally after Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had been minded to walk away from negotiations. The eventual agreement was reached between Soriano, Marinakis and Anderson's agent David Manasseh, bypassing the clubs' sporting directors to conclude a deal that had come close to collapsing entirely.

Anderson is the centrepiece of director of football Hugo Viana's ongoing rebuild at the Etihad. The work, however, is far from finished. Geronimo Rulli is close to joining from Marseille as backup goalkeeper, while discussions over further additions in the wide attacking and midfield positions continue. The pursuit of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille and fresh contact with Pedro Neto's camp are among the active threads still being worked through before the window closes.

For now, though, the focus is on Anderson — and the early signs suggest City's record outlay has the dressing room's approval.