Phil Foden Reclaims Form as England Returns Beckon

After a challenging 2024-25 campaign that saw him struggle both physically and mentally, Phil Foden has successfully regained his form and confidence, delivering consistent performances this season. The English winger has already notched up four goals and three assists across all competitions, marking a notable return to the England national team.

The 25-year-old, who last featured for the Three Lions in March, has been recalled by manager Thomas Tuchel, joining fellow star Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid.

Following an impressive display against Dortmund in the Champions League, Foden stated to TNT Sports: “I’m loving it. I just need to play with a smile on my face, which I’m doing. Last year was tough, not just for me but for everyone. There is a new togetherness this season, and you can tell. Today, Dortmund caused us some problems as they are a great team, but we adhered to the plan and broke them down with our attacking talent. Going through a tough period teaches you a lot. We have excellent captains who guide us, and we continuously discuss how to get back on track. Additionally, the new players we’ve added to the squad have injected real hunger and unity. Our goal has been to return to the level we once reached, and this season, we are starting to see glimpses of that.”

While addressing Adeyemi’s struggles this season, manager Niko Kovac highlighted Foden as a source of inspiration, stating: “I’d like to keep it general: City’s passing quality was superior to ours. With Phil Foden’s goals, you could observe how smoothly he controlled the ball before finishing. Karim had a few opportunities but didn’t convert them, lacking precision and accuracy. However, we are actively working on this; finding the net will enhance our chances. I commend him for creating opportunities, nonetheless.”

Kovac continued, “Karim has his own way of handling the situation. We are putting in significant effort, although our schedule of games limits our training. Sometimes goals are scored that shouldn’t be, and vice versa. Against City, we conceded three goals from outside the penalty area. Karim, at just 23, has considerable potential and needs to refine certain aspects of his game, and we are focused on that.”

Kovac further lauded Pep Guardiola’s team, remarking, “We are undoubtedly a strong team in the Bundesliga and have reached the Champions League quarter-finals. However, it’s essential to recognize that City’s caliber is world-class. We are not yet at that level, which is understandable. Our goal is to improve and strive for that standard through daily effort.”

He added, “We did not generate the chances we desired; we were too passive, conceding three goals from outside the penalty area. It was a well-deserved defeat. The difference was evident; City’s passing was significantly cleaner than ours. Against teams of this caliber, we must defend much better.”

After their resounding victory over the German side in Europe, Guardiola’s squad will now turn their attention to the Premier League, where they are set to face reigning champions Liverpool at home on Sunday. Currently trailing league leaders Arsenal by six points, City must secure a win at the Etihad Stadium to narrow the gap with the Gunners while extending their lead over the Reds.