Maresca believes Elliott Anderson can play in different positions.

With the 2026/27 Premier League season fast approaching, Manchester City's rising star Elliott Anderson is generating considerable excitement among fans. Maresca stated that he is optimistic about the midfielder's ability to play in various positions on the pitch.

Elliott Anderson, 23, previously played for Nottingham Forest, making 38 appearances in the 2025/26 Premier League season, contributing 4 goals and 4 assists.

It is worth mentioning that Elliott Anderson previously represented England in the 2026 World Cup, where he attracted a lot of attention with his outstanding performance and ultimately helped the Three Lions win third place.

Manchester City manager Maresca said, "I think he can play as a defensive midfielder, but he can also play as an attacking midfielder. Elliott Anderson's advantage is that he is still young, so we can develop and help him. He can also play as a number 8 and can make forward runs into the penalty area."

"When he played for Nottingham Forest, he had Ibrahim Sangaray by his side. When he represented England, he had Rice by his side, so he has always had physically gifted players around him. But I don't think he needs a physically gifted player by his side all the time."

Maresca pointed out, "I've seen a lot of highlights from him, both with and without the ball, which has impressed me a lot. I like players who can play in different positions, and as I said, Elliott Anderson can play as a number 6 or a number 8, and he performs very well in both positions."

When asked whether the number 6 and number 8 positions should be integrated, Maresca said, "It depends on the specific situation. We currently have Rodri in our squad, who is a defensive midfielder and also a top player. So it depends to some extent on the player's own characteristics."

"If you are a very good defensive midfielder, then doing that position well is enough. If you are mobile and can play in different positions, that is certainly a good thing."

In addition, Manchester City will compete against Arsenal for the Community Shield title in 2026.

Maresca said, "The team is improving with each game, and I can see what we are training and emphasizing every day."

"It is very important that the players are willing to learn, and overall, I think all the players performed very well from day one."

Image source: Internet