Pep Guardiola is optimistic that Phil Foden will be fit for Manchester City after the international break, raising doubts about his participation in England's Nations League matches. Foden has been unwell early in the season, missing wins against Ipswich Town and West Ham after playing 45 minutes against Chelsea on the first matchday.

2010 - Phil Foden is the first English man to win the PFA Player's Player of the Year award since Wayne Rooney in 2010, and the first to do so in the same year as winning the title since John Terry in 2005. Recognised. pic.twitter.com/s5MQMBCdxj

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 20, 2024

Despite Foden's absence, City has maintained a perfect start to their campaign. Guardiola is eager to have the Premier League Player of the Season for 2023-24 back soon. Last season, Foden scored 19 league goals and provided eight assists, including crucial hat-tricks against Brentford and Aston Villa.Foden has been named in Lee Carsley's England squad for upcoming matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland. However, Guardiola remains uncertain about his availability for these fixtures. When asked about Foden's return, Guardiola said: "Hopefully not too long. Hopefully after the international break he'll be ready."City's next Premier League game is against Brentford on September 14. Four days later, they will face Inter at Etihad Stadium for their Champions League opener. Guardiola prefers that Foden takes time to fully recover before returning to action."He played against Chelsea for 45 minutes but then didn't feel good," Guardiola explained. "He had tests and feels much better, but he still doesn't feel perfect. I prefer we have that time for him to recover and be fine and after, come back after the international break and be ready for those games."Foden's performance last season was exceptional, making him a key player for both club and country. His return will be eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike as City aims to continue their strong start to the season.The team has shown resilience without Foden, but his presence adds a significant boost to their attacking options. As they prepare for crucial fixtures ahead, having a fully fit Foden could make all the difference in maintaining their momentum.Guardiola’s cautious approach ensures that Foden returns only when he is completely ready, prioritising his long-term fitness over immediate availability. This strategy reflects City's depth and ability to manage player health effectively while competing at the highest level.Manchester City supporters will be hoping that Foden can quickly regain full fitness and contribute to their pursuit of domestic and European success this season.