Ilkay Gundogan says that Phil Foden is one of the “best talents” that he has ever seen in his life as he reflects on the Manchester City youngster’s performances this season. Gotze won the Golden Boy Award in 2011, which is given to the best under-21 player in world football. It has been won by the likes of Wayne Rooney, Lionel Messi, Raheem Sterling, and Kylian Mbappe. And Gundogan believes that Foden is on a similar level to the man who scored Germany’s World Cup-winning goal in 2014.
Ilkay Gundogan said: “I would mention – Phil is definitely one of the best – I would mention one more guy, who is called Mario Gotze, When I arrived at Dortmund, when I was 20 or 21, he had just turned I think 18, and when I saw him in training, he was just unbelievable. He was incredible for his age. The way he played, the way he trained. It was so difficult to get the ball from him. Phil is definitely also there. These two are probably the best talents I have seen in my life.”
Gundogan was also asked whether he believes Foden needs to hit the gym and bulk up.
Ilkay Gundogan replied: “I’m not sure if a little bit more weight would improve his game because I think he is already strong and I’m not sure if he would lose a little bit of pace, of his movement, if he hit the gym more often. I think the way he is at the moment, for his age, the condition he is in, is amazing. And there is a little question mark in my head if that would maybe be beneficial for him.”
Such high praise for Foden is not unique. Pep Guardiola once named him the most talented player he has ever seen.
Pep Guardiola said: “He has everything to become one of the best players. I have said many times in press conferences, but maybe not said it in front of him, Phil is the most, most, most talented player I have ever seen in my career as a manager. His only problem is sometimes his manager doesn’t put him in the starting XI. Hopefully in the future that can improve.”
Foden started on the bench for City’s Saturday afternoon match against West Ham United.
