Pep Guardiola has re-emphasised his belief in Phil Foden and said: “One day not far away, he will play every weekend”.
Foden was handed a rare start in Zagreb on Wednesday night and impressed – even managing to get himself on the scoresheet late on. The Spanish coach was speaking to the media ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixture at Arsenal.
When asked specifically about Foden, Guardiola had this to say: “He has played 50 games and he is 19-years-old.
“He is in one of the top teams in Europe. We are delighted with him. He made a really good game and he will make incredible games in the future.
Would you start Foden over David Silva?
Yes
No
“I am delighted for him. He is more mature all the time, his teammates help him every session. He played 50 games, maybe not the 90 minutes each time, but he was involved. He has experienced tough moments. Last season against Tottenham we needed points and he started.
“When he doesn’t start it’s because Kevin, David or Gundogan can play in that position. He plays more each season. One day, not far away, he will play every weekend. That is my feeling.”
TIF Tactics – Is Foden ready?
Foden is a hugely talented young player and from where we are standing it looks as though he is being managed perfectly. Surrounded by some of the world’s best players, the Englishman will no doubt be learning every day on the training ground and further enhancing his game.
It’s difficult for anybody to hold down a place in that City midfield given the fierce competition, therefore, Guardiola’s decision to leave Foden out of the starting eleven is in no way a reflection of his belief in the young man – more so an acknowledgement of the vast array of talent at his disposal.
Foden certainly appears to be the future of Manchester City and he, perhaps, has all the makings to be a future club captain.