The England star has demonstrated his ability to play as a No.6 or a No.8 in recent seasons.
And Maresca says is not afraid to utilise Anderson in a variety of midfield positions.
“[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.
“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.
Asked whether he felt central midfielders want to do the work of No.6s and No.8 in one combined role, he said: “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.”
And Maresca says he has been impressed by the work and willingness of his squad in his first few weeks in charge, adding: “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.”
Premier League 2026/27 home tickets now on sale
General admission tickets for Manchester City’s home 2026/27 Premier League fixtures are now on sale to Premium, Matchday and Junior Members.
Season Ticket Members, meanwhile, are now also able to purchase additional tickets for selected games.
Premier League match-by-match ticket prices for junior and adult Matchday Members have been retained at the same rate for a third consecutive season.
It promises to be another thrilling campaign for the Blues as we enter a new era under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, who takes over from Pep Guardiola in the hotseat.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium for our Premier League fixtures now!
