​If both players stay fit, the expectation is that Rodri and Elliot Anderson will spearhead Manchester City’s midfield next season. On paper, their styles appear to complement one another well. Anderson brings an all-action, high-intensity approach, excelling at winning duels and driving the team forward from midfield—a weapon Enzo Maresca can deploy to his advantage. Rodri, by contrast, is the midfield architect. He sets the tempo and, when fully fit, remains the dominant number six in European football. The combination of their strengths suggests they could form a formidable partnership for City.
The first clear glimpse of what Rodri and Anderson could offer Maresca’s side comes from the 2026 World Cup, where Anderson has been instrumental for England as they progressed to the semi-finals, where they will meet Argentina. Rodri has been equally influential for Spain, starring in a midfield that has taken them to a semi-final against France. Watching Anderson and Rodri in action, with their contrasting styles, offers a clear sign of the upside they could bring to Manchester City next season.
Both Anderson and Rodri have played pivotal roles in England and Spain’s campaigns to the World Cup semi-finals. Their performances have been markedly different, yet they share the common thread of powering their teams forward from midfield. It is easy to argue that England and Spain would not have reached the final four without the contributions of these two players.
For England, Anderson has been a bundle of energy in the engine room. His ability to cover ground and win duels has been crucial for Thomas Tuchel’s side. His hard work has created space for Jude Bellingham to push forward and support Harry Kane. Kane and Bellingham have combined for 12 goals at the tournament, a reflection of the attacking platform England have built. Behind them, Anderson’s and Declan Rice’s durability and consistency have provided the foundation of England’s midfield. In Anderson, England have had a reliable presence who has rarely wasted a touch or misplaced a crucial challenge.
Rodri has been the backbone of Spain’s World Cup midfield. Any doubts about his fitness or his ability to control a match have been laid to rest as Spain have dominated possession and rhythm throughout the tournament. Spain’s approach, as is their want, has revolved around maintaining control, pressing decisively when needed, and letting Rodri orchestrate from deeper positions. When the moment has demanded it, Rodri has dropped back to shut down threats, ensuring Spain have been able to push through tougher periods. Just as Anderson has anchored England, Rodri’s influence has been essential for Spain’s progression.
The performances of Rodri and Elliot Anderson at the World Cup have been encouraging from a Manchester City perspective, suggesting they could be the ideal ingredients for City’s midfield next season. Their different profiles, combined with their demonstrated impact at the tournament, offer a compelling glimpse into what Maresca might harness at club level in the near future.