Iliman Ndiaye, the Senegal international, joined Manchester City from Everton in September for a reported £65 million, signing a five-year deal with the Premier League champions. Ndiaye's move to City marked a swift return to English football after just one season in France with Marseille, where he made 46 appearances, registering four goals and five assists across the campaign. Marseille fans have expressed their affection for the player, and Ndiaye has responded positively to their sentiments.
During Senegal's 1-0 victory over Comoros at the Stade Vélodrome, Marseille's home ground, supporters began chanting for Ndiaye to come back to the club. The winger did not brush off the chants, instead making a pointed comment about his emotional ties to Marseille. Ndiaye told La Provence that the shouts from Marseille supporters asking him to come back were nice to hear, and he did not think that the story was finished.
Ndiaye made it clear that his affection for Marseille goes beyond professional loyalty, stating that he only has positive memories of his time at the club. He added that it was a source of pride for him and that he does not miss a single match. Ndiaye's words will naturally delight Marseille supporters, though there is nothing to suggest that he is looking for a way out of the Etihad right now.
The timing of Ndiaye's comments is notable, coming just days after Manchester City were found guilty of 114 out of 115 alleged Premier League financial breaches. The club has denied the allegations and is currently appealing the independent commission's verdict, with sanctions still to be determined. Whether that wider uncertainty at City played any part in Ndiaye's thinking remains unknown.
For now, Ndiaye's comments read more like a fond acknowledgement of where he has been than a signal of where he is heading. However, in football, that kind of statement rarely goes unnoticed, and Marseille fans will certainly be clinging to every word. Ndiaye has made four appearances for City since arriving and, by all indications, is settling into life at the club.
Ndiaye's move to Marseille from Sheffield United was for around £20 million, and he spent one season with the French club before joining Everton. His performances in France caught the attention of several clubs, including Manchester City, who eventually signed him for a reported £65 million. The 26-year-old's future plans are unclear, but his affection for Marseille is evident.
Manchester City's financial situation and Ndiaye's comments about Marseille have sparked speculation about his future. While there is no indication that he is looking to leave City, his words have delighted Marseille fans and sparked discussion about a potential return. The situation will likely continue to be monitored by fans and pundits alike.
Key points
- Manchester City were found guilty of 114 out of 115 alleged Premier League financial breaches.
- Iliman Ndiaye joined Manchester City from Everton for a reported £65 million in September.
- Ndiaye expressed his affection for Marseille, stating that it is his club and always will be.
