” I really enjoyed it”
Phil Foden has gone from being overlooked by Pep Guardiola and missing out on the World Cup last season to becoming one of Manchester City’s leading figures this campaign, according to a report in the Spanish newspaper AS.
The publication described the England international’s transformation under the headline “Foden exposes Guardiola”, following his outstanding performance in City’s 5-1 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Foden scored a hat-trick and set up a goal for Rayan Cherki as Manchester City returned to winning ways in Europe’s leading club competition. Operating as a false nine, the position gave the Manchester-born forward the freedom and confidence to influence the game throughout.
“I really enjoyed it,” Foden said after the match.
“There is still a long way to go before I reach my best level, but I am heading in the right direction, and scoring goals always helps me.”
He was also praised by his manager at a news conference, with Maresca describing Foden as one of the best English players.
“He has not been at his best during the past two or three seasons for different reasons, but I know how good he is and I am trying to help him,” Maresca said.
“I am sure he will be a valuable addition for us this season.”
Foden’s return to form has come at an important time. There is no natural replacement for Erling Haaland, while Semenyo, one of the options being considered by Maresca to cover for the Norway striker, will be unavailable for eight weeks.
Foden returned to the team against Ipswich Town in his previous appearance, scoring his first goal for 10 months and ending his long wait for a goal. He has now scored four times in his past two matches.
At the Etihad Stadium, Foden holds a special status. He was born in Manchester, came through Manchester City’s academy and has supported the club since childhood. His performances, with the ball controlled by his left foot, regularly prompt supporters to sing: “He is one of us.”
That connection had seemed to weaken during the past few seasons, as his influence declined and he moved from being regarded as one of the Premier League’s outstanding players to a peripheral figure under Guardiola.
His downturn eventually contributed to his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup last summer, leaving him to watch the tournament from home.
Foden remains optimistic about his prospects. If he can maintain the level he showed in his past two matches, his chances of representing England again will increase.
The next challenge is to show that this strong return is the beginning of a sustained revival rather than the product of two good performances.
