Since the Manchester Derby on January 17, Phil Foden has only started in 2/7 of Man City's most recent matches. This is no longer a surprise for The Citizens because since the injury last season, the English striker has not been able to regain his form in his returns to the pitch.
In May 2025, when asked about his form, Foden said that in addition to injuries, he encountered many unsatisfactory behind-the-scenes stories, greatly affecting his psychology. Until this season, except for a double against Dortmund in the Champions League, Foden is still struggling to regain his peak state as in the previous 2 years.
In the most recent draw against Nottingham Forest, in the 2nd conceded goal, Bernardo Silva frankly shared that the opponent was not too sharp, but it was the looseness in defense that made Man City pay the price. Looking back at that situation, anyone can see that Foden was one of the weak links leading to the away team being equalized 2-2, which is very regrettable.
Pep sees that, but for the Spanish coach, Foden is still a big asset, even the future of the club after the golden generation won the treble in 2023. Pep shared that he hopes Foden will return step by step. Everyone's career has ups and downs, Foden has been playing professionally for 8-9 years, losing form is inevitable.
The relationship between Pep and Foden is still very good. When the English striker was substituted in the match against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League, there were rumors of a rift between the two. However, when Erling Haaland scored against Liverpool, television cameras captured the scene of Foden and Pep hugging each other in extreme sublimation.
This season, Foden is being given many starts in cup competitions to gradually regain his form. Comparisons with Exeter City (FA Cup) and Newcastle (League Cup) are examples. The match against Fulham (Premier League) on February 11 is also an opportunity for Foden to prove his ability again. Pep still creates opportunities for his beloved student and waits for the day he returns soon.
Foden's current contract will expire in the summer of 2027. He is still a pillar of Man City, so extending the contract is not too difficult, but from now until then, the performance of this star will determine his attitude in the Citizens squad.
This year there will be the 2026 World Cup, Foden is an important player for Thomas Tuchel, but if he does not regain his form early, there may be an upheaval with him having to sit at home watching the "Three Lions" play football in North America. In May 2025, during Tuchel's call-up, Foden was absent. He will not return until November 2025.
If Ryan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders seize the opportunity and play well in the sprint stage, Foden's position at Man City will be affected, and may even affect Tuchel's decision in the England national team. Phil Foden is a world-class player, who has won countless prestigious titles at the age of 25, but the past cannot be gnawed on forever, he must return soon before it is too late.
