Used to top-level talent these days, Manchester City fans will have surely enjoyed watching on as Phil Foden picked up the ball under pressure, dazzle his way through seemingly the entire France defence, before slotting calmly into the bottom corner for the England U21s.
That’s right, City’s shining prospect caught the attention early on as the Young Lions’ quest for European glory kicked off with a disappointing defeat. Typical England, right?
Obviously not the start Aidy Boothroyd would have wanted but, for City fans, they yet again saw another glimpse of what this extraordinarily talented midfielder could become – and what he already is.
Foden – who recently turned 19 – played an increasing role this season, making 17 appearances between the Champions League and Premier League, scoring twice in the process. Indeed, he also netted three times in the FA Cup and twice in the Carabao Cup and despite starting just the three league games, his talent was there for all to see.
With Gary Neville recently claiming (on Sky, per the Daily Mail) a lack of midfield creativity has been a long-running problem for the English national side for ’25-30 years’ following the recent UEFA Nations League semi-final loss to the Netherlands, perhaps both City and England have a long-term option in that role. Still, that shouldn’t really be the point.
Pep Guardiola has already labelled the Stockport-born midfielder ‘special’ and, while so much has already been written about one of the stars of the England U17 World Cup win in 2017, he did prove something last night.
The nature of his goal, taking the initiative and the game by the scruff of its neck to slalom through a tightly-packed defence is perhaps indicative of his growing stature in the game. Handed a Premier League start for a crucial game against Tottenham in the Premier League after their Champions League exit to the North London club, Foden scored the only goal and was handed the Man of the Match award by Bernardo Silva after the Portuguese had initially won it. With the title on the line at that point, it was arguably his greatest individual career moment (thus far anyway).
Right now, he’s having a big impact on the present. His goal last night and the winner against Spurs show he can influence games, which is important when it comes to gauging his talent.
Undoubtedly, the future is exciting for Manchester City supporters, but so is the present with this talented teen in the team.
City fans, just how good is Phil Foden? Do you expect him to be a regular starter in the coming seasons? Let us know!
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