Parker hails Anderson as a ‘different version’ of Scholes at Man City

Former Manchester United full‑back Paul Parker has praised Manchester City’s £116 million signing Elliot Anderson, calling him “a different version” of Paul Scholes, and highlighted the midfielder’s potential under the Blues’ new era at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester for the club.

Anderson has signed a five‑year contract at the Etihad Stadium and will earn roughly £300,000 per week. He joins newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca as the club builds its squad in England’s north‑west.

The deal set a new British transfer record and required the intervention of City CEO Ferran Soriano after owner Evangelos Marinakis threatened to walk away. Anderson arrives from Nottingham Forest, completing the club’s record £116 million purchase.

Speaking to PariuriX.com, Parker described the midfielder as “a little sniper” and an “assassin in what he does”. He added, “He’s a different version of Paul Scholes” in the way he plays, echoing the Scholes” comparison.

Revealed by the club, the signing comes as Pep Guardiola steps down and the Blues look beyond his tenure. The arrival also coincides with speculation around Rodri’s future in the midfield, while director of football Hugo Viana and Maresca are expected to amplify Anderson’s quality.

What Parker’s verdict highlights is the belief that Anderson’s quality will be amplified by the environment created by Viana and Maresca. Whether he can maintain week‑in‑week‑out consistency in the Premier League remains to be seen. His debut season will test the promise that his clean, tidy style can thrive alongside City’s elite, and fans will watch closely as Maresca’s first competitive campaign unfolds.