Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Phil Foden after the English forward delivered a brilliant performance in Manchester City’s 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Foden’s two goals marked his first-ever brace in the competition and took his tally to 20 Champions League goals, making him the seventh English player to reach that milestone. The Football Insight, will discuss the complete information below, check this out.
The 25-year-old had endured a difficult previous season, with both his form and City’s consistency dipping as they finished third in the Premier League and lost the FA Cup final. But against Dortmund, Foden looked sharp, confident, and determined—much like the player who was voted Premier League Player of the Season in 2023–24.
“This season, he’s back,” Guardiola said. “Phil is special. When he plays between the lines, it doesn’t matter what happens—he makes the difference. Hopefully, this is the first step to seeing his best again.”
From Struggles to Redemption
Phil Foden’s performance was not just about the goals; it was about his energy, creativity, and movement—all hallmarks of his peak form. Two years ago, he scored 19 league goals, but last season that number fell to just seven. His struggles led to him being left out of the last three England squads, a surprising turn for a player once seen as the future of English football.
Guardiola acknowledged that the entire City team had suffered a collective dip in form last season. However, he emphasized that Foden’s resurgence could be the key to reigniting City’s rhythm. “When Phil is on fire, we are a different team,” he said. “He brings joy and intensity—things we missed.”
The Dortmund win lifted Manchester City to fourth in the Champions League standings. Besides that, giving them renewed belief as they push for another deep European run under Guardiola.
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Guardiola’s Faith Never Faded
Despite Foden’s inconsistency, Guardiola never doubted his potential. He described Foden as a “top-class player” whose ceiling remains incredibly high. “There’s no one in the world who doesn’t know his quality,” Guardiola said. “England is lucky to have so many talented players, but Phil must keep pushing to become even better.”
Guardiola’s comments reflect his belief in nurturing Foden’s growth rather than shielding him from criticism. The city boss emphasized that success for Foden comes through hard work and maintaining his hunger. “When we won our fourth Premier League in a row, he was the best player in England. We miss that version of him—but now he’s back.”
Eyes on England Recall
With Thomas Tuchel set to name his England squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, Foden’s timing couldn’t be better. After being overlooked in recent months, his display against Dortmund serves as the perfect reminder of what he can bring to the national team.
Guardiola expressed confidence that Tuchel knows Foden’s quality well. “Thomas is very smart—he knows exactly what the national team needs,” he said. “Phil just needs to keep performing like this. The rest will follow.”
If Foden continues this form, both Manchester City and England could soon benefit from the return of one of their brightest stars. For now, Guardiola’s message is clear—Phil Foden is back to his best. Also take advantage of your free time to explore more of the latest Premier League news with just one click at footballcoasters.co.uk.