Foden Shines as City Looks to Close Gap in Premier League

After a challenging 2024-25 season marked by physical and mental struggles, Phil Foden has successfully returned to form, demonstrating consistent performances this season. The English winger has already netted four goals and provided three assists across all competitions and has made his way back into the England national team.

At 25 years old, Foden, who last played for the Three Lions in March, was recalled by manager Thomas Tuchel, joining Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham for the upcoming fixtures.

Following a standout performance against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, Foden shared his thoughts with 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 sense of unity this season that is evident. Dortmund presented us with challenges, but we adhered to our strategy and leveraged our attacking talent to overcome them. Going through tough times teaches you valuable lessons. Our team has excellent captains, and we regularly discuss how to regain our form. We’ve also welcomed great new players into the squad, fostering a genuine desire and cohesiveness. Our goal is to become the team we once were, and this season we are beginning to witness that resurgence.”

In discussing Karim Adeyemi’s struggles this season, coach Kovac referenced Foden as a role model, stating: “I want to keep my comments general: City’s passing quality surpassed ours. Phil Foden’s goals highlighted his smooth ball control and finishing ability. Karim had opportunities but lacked the precision and accuracy we need to capitalize on. This is an area we are actively working to improve. The more we can convert chances, the better our outcomes will be.”

He added, “Karim has a unique perspective and we’re putting in the effort. We’ve had numerous matches recently, which limits our training time. At times, the ball goes in when it shouldn’t, and the opposite is true as well. In our match against City, we conceded three goals from the perimeter of the penalty area. Karim, at just 23, possesses significant potential and can enhance several aspects of his game. We are committed to his development.”

Kovac further expressed admiration for Pep Guardiola’s side, stating to reporters: “We are certainly a strong team in the Bundesliga and have advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals. However, it’s important to recognize that Manchester City is a world-class team, and we are not yet at that level. This acknowledgment is vital for our growth. We aspire to reach such heights, but it requires ongoing improvement and daily hard work.

We fell short in creating as many chances as we aimed for. We were overly passive, conceding three goals from outside the penalty area, resulting in a deserved defeat. The disparity in passing accuracy was clear. Against teams of this caliber, defensive improvement is crucial.”

After their European triumph over the German side, Guardiola’s team will now turn their attention to the Premier League, where they will face reigning champions Liverpool at home this Sunday. Currently trailing league leaders Arsenal by six points, City must secure a victory at the Etihad Stadium to narrow the gap with the high-flying Gunners while also extending their lead over the Reds.