Rewind two years ago and chants of “Phil Foden is on fire” played on the soundtrack of England’s run to the Euro 2024 final. Fast forward to today and the playmaker may not even be part of Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.
Foden’s form did not improve at Euro 2024 and that carried over into Manchester City’s 2024/25 season. Although the 25-year-old has improved this time around, it may be too late to make the final 26 squad for this summer’s tournament.
Foden featured for England during the March international break but came under heavy criticism from manager Tuchel, who was unimpressed with his performances. Since then, Foden has made several high-profile cameos for City, most notably last week’s 3-0 win over Crystal Palace.
It is unlikely that all four will be signed, and at least one will be disappointed with Tuchel’s decision. Is it Foden? Well, you can have your say…
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City manager Josep Guardiola has been full of praise for Foden, despite the midfielder’s struggles at times over the past 24 months. After the win against Palace, manager Guardiola said: “In these types of matches, (the opponent) needs a low block…quality, brilliance, talent, vision, etc.
“It’s not in the tactical committee, it’s not in the meetings, it’s not in the videos, it’s not in training.[Foden]receives the ball in tight spaces and creates something. Like all good players, he can get results and I’m really happy for him. Phil is unique close to the box so we want him to be closer to the box.”
Foden’s only World Cup appearance was in 2022, when he featured regularly for Gareth Southgate’s side, who reached the quarter-finals. Foden featured for England at Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, with the Three Lions reaching the finals in both competitions.
