Elliot Anderson explains why he snubbed Manchester United's holiday transfer plea to complete Manchester City move

Elliot Anderson has explained his decision to join Manchester City rather than Manchester United, revealing that he resisted direct approaches from Red Devils players during his post-season break. The England international was courted by a group of Old Trafford stars while on holiday, but his deep loyalty to his boyhood club meant the outcome was never in doubt.

The Portugal Encounter

Anderson addressed the speculation surrounding Manchester United's pursuit of him at a fan event at the City club store on Wednesday. When asked about reports that he had been lobbied by United players during the off-season, he confirmed the encounters but dismissed their significance. "I was just golfing in Portugal and bumped into a few and had a nice chat and stuff like that but I had a decision to make and I chose City," he explained.

The midfielder insisted that any attempts to sway him were ultimately futile, emphasizing that the speculation had been exaggerated. "I've seen a few things. It was blown out of proportion," Anderson said of the reports surrounding a potential move to the red side of Manchester.

A Lifelong Sky Blue

Anderson's attachment to Manchester City runs deep, rooted in childhood memories that solidified his allegiance to the club. He revealed that he had been watching City for the past 10 years, with a formative moment occurring during his early teens. "I was probably eight or nine when Sergio Aguero scored that goal. I've been watching City for the past 10 years," he recalled. "You've got a big decision to make - and I'm confident I've made the right one."

For Anderson, the move to City represents more than just a career step. It is a chance to play for the club that once housed his footballing hero. Kevin De Bruyne's influence on the modern game has clearly left a mark on the young Englishman, who spent his formative years studying the Belgian's movement and passing range.

The midfielder expressed his deep admiration for one of the club's greatest modern players. "De Bruyne was always the player I looked up to over the last 10 years," Anderson said. "I loved watching him. To be here at the same club and playing where he played is special."

Making His Mark

Anderson is preparing for his competitive debut in the Community Shield against Arsenal at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff this Sunday. The midfielder revealed he will be wearing the number five jersey, previously worn by club legend John Stones. "I had a few numbers to choose from and obviously Stonesy was the last number five and he was really good with me in the summer and I thought it would be a great touch to take that," Anderson noted.

Following his first day of training with the club, Anderson expressed his satisfaction with his big move from Nottingham Forest. "I'm over the moon. First day of training today the lads have welcomed me really well and training went well so just getting to grips with everything," he told BBC Radio Manchester.

A Promising Start

Looking ahead to his debut, Anderson expressed confidence in his readiness and excitement about the challenge. "The chance to win a trophy in your first week is quite good so hopefully I can get some minutes there and show what I can do. I'm feeling comfortable," he stated. He acknowledged the quality of the opposition but expressed determination: "It will be a difficult game obviously they are champions from last season so it will be tough but every game is going to be tough this season. We will just put our style on them and try and win the game."

Anderson has also expressed enthusiasm about working with new manager Enzo Maresca and highlighted the detail he goes into his approach. Regarding his record-breaking transfer fee, Anderson insisted he tries not to focus on his club record 116m fee, believing that over the next season he can show people what he does best.

Despite being recognized more frequently since his high-profile move, Anderson stated he is taking it all in his stride. "It's been a little bit different but I am enjoying it taking it all in my stride and just feeling confident and happy to be here and I'm looking forward to the season," he said. Despite the enormous investment Manchester City has made in his arrival, the England international's primary focus remains on justifying that faith through performances on the pitch.