Elliot Anderson could be thrust into a crucial Manchester City role from the start of next season, as Rodri is reportedly set for surgery after the World Cup that will sideline him again. According to the Daily Mail, the Spain midfielder will undergo a procedure following the tournament, extending his absence into the new campaign.
Rodri's Ongoing Fitness Struggles
This continues a frustrating two-year period for City and the player since his ACL injury. Despite several comebacks, Rodri finally found rhythm in the first half of this year only to suffer another setback at a critical point of the season. City want to rely on the Ballon d'Or winner, but his availability remains uncertain.
Pep Guardiola faced a similar issue last summer when Rodri was unfit to start games, Mateo Kovacic was injured until October, and Nico Gonzalez was not yet a No.6. That problem proved costly for City's silverware hopes. Now, for the third successive season, the No.6 position is under threat.
Enzo Maresca's Advantage
New manager Enzo Maresca is better equipped to handle the crisis than Guardiola was. City's £116m signing Elliot Anderson provides a ready-made solution. The England international, viewed by Thomas Tuchel as a No.6, has spent the summer playing that role at the World Cup.
Anderson has even bigger expectations after his price tag, but his consistency in the Premier League last season makes him a reliable option. Maresca can also consider signing Moroccan teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi to secure the position long-term.
Anderson's First Assignment
While Anderson may eventually play further forward, as he has at times for Nottingham Forest, Rodri's fitness issues likely ensure the £116m midfielder will start the season as City's defensive midfielder. Greater competition awaits at the Etihad, but this problem for City secures Anderson a major role from the outset.
