It is fair to say that Phil Foden has made a slow start to the 24/25 season. There have been several factors that have contributed to this. A summer of international duty, illness, and rest has seen Foden start the new season slowly. But Pep Guardiola has told the media today that the signs are there that one of Manchester City’s key players is close to returning to his best.
There were glimpses during Manchester City’s 1-all draw with Newcastle on Saturday that Foden is returning to his best. The touches and movement that are synonymous with Foden’s game looked to have returned. On top of Foden’s incredible talent, his movement and ability to exploit small spaces is crucial to City’s play. With Kevin De Bruyne out it is crucial for Manchester City that Foden returns to sparkling best.
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Speaking before Manchester City’s Champions League clash with Slovan Bratislava Pep Guardiola told the media that the signs are there that one of Manchester City’s key players is close to returning to his best. Guardiola said the signs are building that Foden is nearing his best form. He said: “Maybe I can have some doubts about many things, but Phil Foden is going to be back! As much as he feels good, he will be back! I think 30 minutes playing at St James’ Park [against Newcastle], I felt already something that I like that I didn’t see for example against Watford. We cannot forget after two months or maybe more without training, with the problems that he had a little bit with niggles and some problems in his health. Now he’s smiling in his rhythm.”
Based on Pep Guardiola’s assessment it won’t be long before Phil Foden is back to his best. Several factors have contributed to Foden’s slow start to the season. But after getting the necessary rest and overcoming illness it’s only a matter of time before Foden is back creating havoc for Manchester City.
