Pep Guardiola has expressed optimism about Phil Foden’s return to form as the Manchester City midfielder strives to kickstart his season. Foden, who was exceptional last year and clinched the three major individual awards in England, played a pivotal role in helping City surpass Arsenal and Liverpool to secure a fourth consecutive Premier League title. However, following a lackluster European Championship with England where he struggled to make an impact, Foden has yet to find his stride under Guardiola this season.
Complications such as illness have seen Foden miss several games, and his involvement has mostly been limited to appearances from the bench. His sole start came in the league cup game against Watford. In the absence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne, Guardiola has predominantly turned to veteran Ilkay Gundogan. While City fans eagerly await to see if Foden will feature in the upcoming match against Slovan Bratislava, Guardiola remains confident in Foden’s potential.
Pep Guardiola said “As much as he feels good, he will be back.”
Reflecting on Foden’s recent performance,
Pep Guardiola said “The 30 minutes he played at St James Park, I felt already something that I liked that I didn’t see against Watford.”
Guardiola acknowledged the midfielder’s challenging period post-Euros.
Pep Guardiola said “We cannot forget after the Euros he had been two months without training, with a few niggles and some problems. Now he is smiling a bit and getting into his rhythm.”
The City manager emphasized Foden’s significance to the team.
Pep Guardiola said We have done without him for a period, but he is an important player for us. I don’t have any doubts. The way he loves to play football, he will be back and will help us, just like he has since he landed in Man City.”
