Guardiola Relieved As Foden's Recent Goals Alleviate Early-Season Concerns

Add as a preferred source on Google

Phil Foden's recent scoring streak has eased Pep Guardiola's initial worries about his form. As Manchester City gear up to face Ipswich Town on Sunday, they aim to bounce back after a 2-2 draw with Brentford. Despite leading by two goals, City conceded twice late in the game. This result leaves them sixth in the league, though they remain unbeaten in five matches across all competitions.

Foden was instrumental in City's last match, scoring both goals against Brentford. Guardiola expressed satisfaction with Foden's resurgence, noting his improved mood and performance. "In the first part of the year, I was a little concerned, and he was a bit more down. But sometimes you need to breathe and come back. His natural talent will do the rest," said Guardiola.

Meanwhile, Ipswich Town is struggling near the bottom of the table following a 2-0 loss to Brighton. This defeat marked their third in five games under Kieran McKenna's management. Despite these challenges, Ipswich has been active in the transfer market, recently signing Jaden Philogene and Ben Godfrey on loan.

McKenna hinted at further signings to strengthen Ipswich's squad as they fight to stay in the Premier League. "We'll try to [do more business] if we can find quality that can improve us," McKenna stated. He emphasised the importance of adding players who can enhance their starting lineup or provide depth from the bench.

Players to Watch: Key Performers

Sammie Szmodics is a player to watch for Ipswich Town. He scored against City earlier this season during their 4-1 defeat. Notably, no player from a promoted team has scored home and away against reigning champions since Newcastle United’s Dwight Gayle and Huddersfield Town’s Laurent Depoitre did so against Chelsea in 2017-18.

For Manchester City, Phil Foden is in fine form with four goals in his last five league matches after failing to score in his first eleven games this season. He aims to score in three consecutive league games for the first time since October 2022.

Match Prediction: Manchester City Favoured

This encounter marks the 30th league campaign between these teams, with City seeking their third double over Ipswich after achieving it previously in 1961-62 and 1994-95 seasons. Historically strong against promoted sides, City have won 20 of their last 21 Premier League games against such teams since April 2021.

However, City has dropped points from winning positions this season, including their recent draw with Brentford where they let slip a two-goal lead. This is their highest tally of points lost from ahead since the 2008-09 season.

Ipswich's Home Advantage

Ipswich boasts an impressive record at home against City, losing just once in their last 28 league meetings (W20 D7). They have won their last four home games against City consecutively but have not faced them since May 2001 when they secured a narrow victory.

The Opta win probability suggests Manchester City are favourites with a 66.5% chance of winning compared to Ipswich’s 14.5%. A draw stands at a probability of 19%. Despite City's dominance over promoted teams recently, Ipswich's strong home record could pose challenges for Guardiola's side.