‘It was always going to be Man City’ – Ndiaye reveals reasons for rejecting Spurs

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Iliman Ndiaye revealed he was always going to choose to join Manchester City in the summer transfer window, despite serious interest from Tottenham.

City signed Ndiaye for a reported £65m from Everton on deadline day, despite Spurs having also agreed a deal with the Toffees.

The Senegal international scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 74 games for Everton, helping them challenge for the European places last season.

Ndiaye made his City debut on Saturday, when they defeated Coventry City 1-0, and he led his side in dribbles attempted (eight) and duels contested (16), while also creating one chance for his team-mates.

He became the first Senegalese player to play for City in the Premier League, the 57th different nation to represent the club in the competition.

And his heart was also set on joining Enzo Maresca’s side, despite the interest from Spurs.

“There was no stress or no panicking,” Ndiaye said. “I always say whatever comes, comes.

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 5, 2026

“God decides your future, it’s already written. I was just being patient and when City came through I was buzzing.

“[Maresca is] someone that admired me and as soon as they came through I had only one direction where I wanted to go.

“For me it was always going to be City. I wanted Champions League and playing at one of the best teams in the world.

“I’m not saying Tottenham is not, but when Manchester City comes through you don’t say no. It’s been a good week for me and topped off with a win.”

City’s next game comes in the Champions League against Porto on Tuesday, while they face rivals Manchester United in their next league match on Sunday.

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