Our very own academy star boy, Phil Foden has recently come under criticism from fans, and from Pep himself for a recent dip in form.
Pep on @PhilFoden:
— City Report (@cityreport_) September 6, 2022
"He has an incredible thing, lately he isn’t playing too good, but he always does the job, and runs and works for the team. He’s dynamic and his work ethic. You can play bad, but every single game Phil [works]. That’s why he deserves to play."
[via @ManCity]
Whilst Pep highlighted this, he also acknowledged that he deserves his place in the starting XI due to his tenacity to try, to work hard and his versatility to help the team.
Fans on the other hand are not so balanced in their opinions:
still baffled how foden was still on the pitch after 90 mins yesterday
— georgia (@geolomasx) September 4, 2022
But has Foden’s form dipped? Or has his role changed?
The youngsters versatility has meant that he’s not yet made a position his own. His ability to play in all attacking positions, and play in those positions well, has led to him being utilised in a number of ways.
Last season, he spent most games playing as a false 9. A position that was proven uneasy to fill after Pep tried a number of his stars there including Sterling, Grealish, Bernardo and Gundogan. But none of them played the role continuously the way Foden did.
Playing as the false 9 is a big responsibility, one he took on and pulled off well. He, and the rest of the team are now readjusting to playing with an out-and-out striker. So far, so good.
The City squad is packed with talent, with the majority able to fill in positions. Credit to Foden though, Pep will do what he can to get him into the team because wherever he plays, he brings outstanding quality.
Last seasons PFA Young Player of the Year, performs in the big games. Shines in the Champions League and against the best teams in the Premier League.
So far, despite his “off” performances, in 6 Premier League appearances this season he has 1 goal and 3 assists, and 2 big chances created.
His first Champions League game of the season, he was again moved to another position. He was one of the best and most dangerous players on the pitch, involved in creating 2 of the goals and scoring 1.
Foden responded to the disrespect with a UCL night masterclass. That’s my starboy
— ⚡️🇧🇼 (@Priceless_Silva) September 6, 2022
He may not be playing with the exciting flare that we’re so used to, but he is contributing to our success as he matures. He’s an important player, one of our best and most talented.
There are however, fans out there with superior knowledge:
Build the England team around Foden! Don’t @ me https://t.co/WIxVcXgTMZ
— Tom Grennan (@Tom_Grennan) September 7, 2022
Look at Phil Foden in that freer central zone, Messi's son. Whoever talks bad on his name doesn't understand the game.
— Umir (@umirf1) September 6, 2022
Our “star boy” not only plays football like Beethoven composed music; not only does he have the most infectious smile that could give Blackpool illuminations a run for their money; but he also has a heart of gold:
What a gesture by Phil Foden, top class this! 👏 pic.twitter.com/UfJAx3YM89
— Football Away Days (@FBAwayDays) September 2, 2022
The fact of the matter is he’s a blue, he’s one of us. He’s one of our own.