Ndiaye now at the top table of the game
Ndiaye now at the top table of the game
John Bennett - Final Score reporter at Etihad Stadium.Mon, September 7, 2026 at 6:14 AM UTC
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Iliman Ndiaye's first comment in the interview room after Saturday's win was a bit of an understatement. He told us it has "been a long journey to get to this point".
Back in 2020, the Senegal winger was playing for Hyde United, on loan from Sheffield United.
Yes, it was only six miles away from Etihad Stadium, but it was also way down in the sixth tier of English football.
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Six years on, Ndiaye is now at the top table of the game and it was a promising debut - including at least one bit of magic first half, which nearly set up a goal, and a half-chance with a flicked header in the second half, as well as some lovely touches throughout the game.
He more than suits the number seven shirt and he got a standing ovation from the Manchester City fans when he was replaced.
Ndiaye told us afterwards that he moved to the club because it's "one of the biggest in the world and who wouldn't want to be here". He also said the prospect of winning trophies was a big pull.
Hyde United is now a distant memory and Ndiaye can look forward to the Champions League and a Manchester derby.
Source: “AOL Sports”
