Guardiola Confident Phil Foden Will Soon Return To Form For Manchester City

Add as a preferred source on Google

Pep Guardiola is confident that Phil Foden will soon regain his top form for Manchester City. Despite being named PFA Player of the Year and Premier League Player of the Year for the 2023-24 season, Foden has mostly been on the bench this season. His only start was against Watford in the EFL Cup. Guardiola remains unconcerned about Foden's current situation.

Foden has yet to score this season, but an upcoming away match against Slovan Bratislava might be his chance to change that. Bratislava suffered a 5-1 defeat in their opening game at Celtic. Guardiola noted that Foden had no training for two months after Euro 2024 due to health issues. However, he is now smiling and regaining his rhythm.

Guardiola expressed confidence in Foden's return to form, stating, "Maybe I can have some doubts in many things, but Phil Foden is going to be back! As much as he feels good, he will be back." He observed positive signs during Foden's recent appearance at St James' Park against Newcastle.

City drew their first Champions League group match 0-0 at home against Inter Milan. They are expected to secure a win against Bratislava on Tuesday. Guardiola emphasized the importance of being aggressive and achieving the desired result, acknowledging that nothing is guaranteed in football.

Manchester City aims to extend their unbeaten run in European competitions. If they avoid defeat against Bratislava, they will match Manchester United's record of 25 games unbeaten between September 2007 and May 2009. City has won 16 and drawn eight of their last 24 Champions League matches.

Guardiola highlighted Foden's passion for football and training as key factors for his comeback. "He was the best player in the Premier League last season so we need him," Guardiola said. He believes Foden's love for the game will ensure his return to peak performance.

Guardiola respects all Champions League teams, especially when playing away games. He hopes City can maintain their aggressive approach and secure necessary results. The team has scored 60 goals while conceding only 18 in their recent Champions League run.