Manchester City's squad depth in wide areas is under the microscope following analysis of Everton's Iliman Ndiaye. The 26-year-old French-born Senegal international is profiled as a potential fit for Pep Guardiola's side, which currently sits first in the Premier League with nine points from three wins.
What does Iliman Ndiaye offer?
Iliman Ndiaye operates primarily as a winger for Everton, comfortable on either flank. Last season he scored five of his 11 open-play goals with his weaker left foot. His technical ability is highlighted by a take-on completion rate of 49 per cent from at least 50 attempts, ranking sixth in the Premier League. He also completed the most long carries in the division with 427. Beyond attacking, his defensive work is exceptional for a forward. He averaged the third-most tackles (2.26) and the most recoveries (5.75) per 90 minutes among Premier League forwards. Ndiaye excels in link-up play, preferring quick, short interplay, and received the ball in tight spaces under pressure 3.4 times per 30 minutes of possession, the second-highest rate for a winger.
How does he compare to City's current options?
Manchester City's wide ranks have thinned after the departures of Savio and Omar Marmoush to Tottenham Hotspur. The squad now lists only Antoine Semenyo and Jérémy Doku as out-and-out wingers, with Phil Foden and Jack Grealish often drifting inside. Doku's dribbling output last season was nearly double Ndiaye's, completing 9.03 dribbles per 90 to Ndiaye's 4.75. However, City's dominant style provides far more opportunity, averaging roughly 74 more attacking third touches per match than Everton. Ndiaye was responsible for a league-high 34.8 per cent of Everton's completed take-ons, indicating he was their primary creative outlet in one-v-one situations.
Where could he fit in City's system?
Ndiaye is unlikely to settle for a backup role and could compete for a starting spot. Manager David Moyes, who used Ndiaye on the right before switching him to the left after Jack Grealish's season-ending injury in January, outlined the profile he seeks. "When we are looking for a winger, we are looking for someone who is good one-v-one and who can attack and create something," Moyes said. This aligns with the requirements of City's system, which values wingers who can beat defenders and contribute to build-up. Ndiaye's defensive intensity would also suit City's high-pressing game.
What is City's current situation?
City's perfect start to the season sees them top with seven goals scored and two conceded. Their next challenge is a trip to face 11th-placed Manchester United on September 13. The squad's injuries list currently includes Nico O'Reilly and Jérémy Doku, alongside Iliman Ndiaye himself, highlighting the need for strong options in attacking positions. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on the fixtures page and view the full standings.
While no move is confirmed, the analysis frames Ndiaye as a wonderfully talented dribbler and a rare find for his off-ball work rate. His potential acquisition would address a clear need for City, who must navigate a long season competing on multiple fronts. The club's next league fixture is away at Old Trafford on September 13.
