Community Shield: Maresca explains Elliot Anderson’s versatile role ahead of Arsenal duel
By Joel Masibo, August 16, 2026Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca believes new midfielder Elliot Anderson can make an impact in more than one position as he prepares for his first season with the club.
The England international has shown in recent campaigns that he is comfortable operating both as a defensive midfielder and in a more advanced No.8 role.
Ahead of Sundays, August 16, 2026 FA Community Shield clash with Arsenal at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Maresca is therefore keen to take advantage of that flexibility.
“[I see him as a] holding midfielder, but he can also be attacking midfielder.,” said the City boss, speaking ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Arsenal.
Maresca highlighted Anderson’s age and potential for development, suggesting the midfielder can continue to expand his game under his guidance.
“The good thing about Elliot is he is young, you can work with him, help him, he can be a No.8 and arrive in the box.
“At Nottingham Forest he was next to Ibrahim Sangare, and with England he was with Declan Rice, so he has had physical players next to him.
“I think he doesn’t need a physical player next to him.
“I have seen many good things from him. On the ball, off the ball in terms of personality at Forest and the national team.
“I like when players can play in different positions and as I said with Elliot he can play six, eight. And he is good in both positions.”
Maresca values midfield versatility
The City boss was also asked whether midfielders should be capable of combining the responsibilities normally associated with both the No.6 and No.8 positions.
“It depends. In this moment we have Rodri who is a No.6 and top player. Depends a little on the player.
“If you are a really good No.6 that is enough. If you are dynamic and can play different positions, that is good.”
City continuing to develop under Maresca
Maresca also praised the attitude shown by his players during his opening weeks in charge, saying he has already noticed encouraging progress in the squad.
“The other thing is game after game the team improves.
“I saw things we are working on every day.
“So for sure the way they are in terms of they want to learn is important, again I think all of them since day one have been very good.”
With the Community Shield against Arsenal approaching, Maresca will be hoping Anderson’s versatility can provide another option as City look to begin the new campaign with silverware.