Elliot Anderson’s £116m Manchester City move is already being viewed as value for money after the midfielder produced a composed, influential display in the 3-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield.
Anderson helped City withstand Liverpool’s pressure before asserting control, offering the energy, defensive aggression and passing ability expected of a modern holding midfielder. His performance was central to a victory shaped by City’s resilience and quality once Liverpool were reduced to 10 men.
Jamie Carragher described Anderson as a “bargain” at £116m, while Gary Neville said the midfielder “dominates big games”. Anderson has now won at Anfield in successive seasons, having previously achieved the feat with Nottingham Forest.
The 23-year-old has also attracted attention for his calmness away from the pitch, despite the scrutiny surrounding Manchester City’s spending. His ability to combine robust running and tackling with intelligent distribution has helped him make a swift impact in his new role.
Florian Wirtz unable to influence Liverpool’s big games
For Liverpool, Florian Wirtz again struggled to provide the decisive moment expected from a player signed for a substantial fee. The Germany international contributed to the pressing and movement that unsettled City during the opening hour, but was unable to produce the creativity his side needed.
Wirtz was substituted before Rayan Cherki supplied City’s third goal, leaving him with no goals this season and only one in his last 16 Premier League appearances. He also lost possession 17 times against City, more than any other player in the match.
There was an opportunity to break the deadlock when Wirtz shot wide with the game still goalless, although better options were available to his left. His tendency to glide through matches means he needs greater end product to justify his influential role in Liverpool’s attack.
The contrast at Anfield was stark: Anderson imposed himself on a major fixture and helped City control its outcome, while Wirtz was unable to provide the spark Liverpool required in a damaging home defeat.
