Manchester City new boy Iliman Ndiaye has revealed that he could not turn down the opportunity to join the Premier League giants, saying the chance to play Champions League football was a major factor in his decision.

The 26-year-old completed a £60 million move from Everton to City on transfer deadline day after Tottenham had initially appeared set to sign him.

Spurs had agreed a deal with Everton, but the transfer collapsed after they were unable to sell Richarlison. City then stepped in with a late approach, and Ndiaye said he was delighted when the opportunity arrived.

As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, the Senegalese was quoted as saying, “There was no stress or panicking.

“I always say whatever comes, comes. God decides your future, it is already written.

“I was just being patient and when City came through I was buzzing. It was always going to be City.

“I wanted Champions League and playing at one of the best teams in the world. I am not saying Tottenham is not, but when Manchester City comes through you don’t say no.”

Ndiaye was handed an immediate starting role by City and helped his new side secure a 1-0 Premier League victory over Coventry at the weekend.

The forward admitted that leaving Everton was difficult after developing a strong relationship with the club’s supporters and players during his two seasons there.

“It was difficult to leave Everton. 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,” he said.

Ndiaye joined Everton from Marseille for £15 million in 2024 and scored 17 goals during his time at the club, becoming a popular figure among the supporters despite Everton finishing in the bottom half of the Premier League in both seasons.

The Senegal international’s career has taken him on an unusual journey. He began in non-league football with Boreham Wood before moving to Hyde United, just seven miles from City’s Etihad Stadium, seven years ago.

He later played for Sheffield United in the Championship and spent a season at Marseille before earning his move to Everton.

Now, Ndiaye believes his switch to City represents the biggest step of his career.

“I don’t really look back. I just look to the future and work hard. I never stop,” he said.

“I just look at the next step and this is a big step to join Manchester City.

“It is one of the biggest clubs in the world. There are world-class players, world-class stadium and the fans are brilliant.

“This is where I think I belong. I have worked hard to get to this point.”