Iliman Ndiaye has wasted little time making an impression at Manchester City. The Senegal international, a £65m deadline-day signing from Everton, has already caught the eye of the club's coaching staff with his attitude and application in training.
Work Rate Catches the Eye
According to the Manchester Evening News, Ndiaye's work rate has drawn particularly strong praise from City's coaches. For a player who has only been at the club for a matter of weeks, that is no small feat. Sporting director Hugo Viana, who highlighted the 26-year-old's mentality and willingness to work when discussing the thinking behind the signing, will be pleased. Viana also pointed to Ndiaye's ability to operate in several attacking positions when explaining why City paid £65m for the former Everton forward.
Ndiaye has already been introduced to Enzo Maresca's side, starting Saturday's 5-3 Premier League victory over Sunderland at the Etihad. In that game, he created an early chance for Erling Haaland before being replaced by Jeremy Doku during the second half.
Maresca's Verdict
Maresca kept his assessment simple afterwards. "I think Iliman played quite well," he said. A modest endorsement, but a notable one given the short time Ndiaye has had to adapt.
The early signs suggest City have added a player whose work ethic matches his versatility. With the season underway, Ndiaye's integration will be one to watch.