Rodri and Anderson shine on international stage
The 2026 World Cup has given Manchester City supporters their first proper look at what Rodri and Elliot Anderson might offer Enzo Maresca's side next season. Both players have been key figures in their countries' runs to the semi-finals — Spain face France, while England take on Argentina.
On paper, the two look like they should fit together nicely. Anderson is the all-action type, winning duels and driving forward from midfield. Rodri is the controller, the man who sets the tempo and remains, when fully fit, the best number six in European football. The contrast is what makes the combination interesting.
For England, Anderson has been a bundle of energy in Thomas Tuchel's midfield. He has covered ground, won battles, and done the dirty work that allows Jude Bellingham to get forward and support Harry Kane. Kane and Bellingham have scored 12 goals between them at this tournament. Behind them, Anderson and Declan Rice have been the foundation.
Anderson has barely put a foot wrong throughout the competition. Mr. Consistent, you might say.
Rodri, meanwhile, has been Spain's pillar. Any lingering doubts about his fitness or his ability to control a game have been put to bed. Spain have dominated possession and tempo in every match, with Rodri at the heart of it. When they have needed him to get back and extinguish fires, he has been there. Without him, it is hard to see Spain reaching the final four.
It is easy to mount an argument that without the performances of Anderson and Rodri, neither England nor Spain would have made it to the semi-finals.
From a City perspective, it has been pleasing to watch. Anderson brings energy, the ability to win duels, and the willingness to cover the pitch. He is also technically gifted with room to grow. Rodri brings everything else — the reading of the game, the passing range, the knack for scoring important goals and seizing big moments.
The pair should dovetail. Anderson could ease the physical burden on Rodri, allowing the Spaniard to dictate the tempo while the younger man does the running. If it clicks, City will have a formidable midfield to unleash next season.