Enzo Maresca believes Elliot Anderson has the qualities to become an even more influential player for Manchester City, revealing that the summer signing could eventually develop into a more attacking midfield role.
Anderson has made an impressive impression since arriving from Nottingham Forest, establishing himself as an important figure in City’s midfield.
The England international has primarily operated as a defensive midfielder, providing protection in front of the backline while allowing more advanced players such as Enzo Fernández and Rayan Cherki greater freedom to influence attacking situations.
However, Maresca insists that Anderson’s abilities extend beyond his current responsibilities, suggesting that the midfielder could eventually become a number eight who regularly contributes inside the opposition penalty area.
Speaking ahead of City’s Champions League meeting with RB Leipzig, the manager explained why he currently prefers Anderson in a deeper position.
“I think in this moment he is playing in the position which is best for him,” Maresca said.
“That is a holding midfielder like a six.”
Anderson Could Become a More Attacking Threat
Although Maresca is satisfied with Anderson’s performances as a holding midfielder, he sees considerable potential for the 23-year-old to influence matches further up the pitch.
The City boss highlighted the midfielder’s passing ability and believes he has the technical qualities to contribute more goals as his understanding of the team’s system develops.
“No doubt in the future he can be also a number eight and arrive in the box,” Maresca explained.
“He has a good pass and also I think he can score some more goals.”
The comments suggest that Anderson’s development at City is not limited to mastering one position. His ability to operate in different midfield roles could give Maresca additional tactical options as the season progresses.
A move into the number eight position would require Anderson to take on more attacking responsibilities, including supporting forward movements, arriving in scoring areas and contributing to City’s creativity in the final third.
Maresca Still Learning About His Squad
Anderson’s possible evolution also reflects the wider process of adaptation taking place under Maresca.
The Italian manager is still getting to know his players, while the squad continues to understand his footballing philosophy and tactical expectations.
Maresca acknowledged that the relationship between manager and players is still developing after four months together.
“In this moment I’m trying to know all of them in the right way. It’s just been four months so I need to know them better and they need to know me better. It’s on both sides,” he said.
Nevertheless, the manager was clear about his belief in Anderson’s potential to become a more advanced midfielder.
“But for sure he can be a number eight that arrives inside the box.”
A Promising Future for City’s Midfield
Anderson’s strong start has already made him an important part of City’s midfield structure, but Maresca’s comments indicate that there could be further dimensions to his game waiting to emerge.
For now, the priority appears to be helping him excel in the holding role, where his passing and positional discipline can provide a foundation for the team’s attacking players.
However, the possibility of seeing Anderson operate further forward adds another interesting element to City’s midfield development.
With the season continuing to unfold, the England international has an opportunity to establish himself as one of the team’s key players while potentially expanding his influence in the months ahead.
