Foden struggled for form throughout the 2024-25 campaign, netting just seven league goals after being crowned Player of the Season a year earlier. However, he has reignited his impact this term with goal contributions in back-to-back matches against مانشستر يونايتد and Napoli. His standout performance came against the latter on Thursday in the دوري أبطال أوروبا, where he created eight chances – the most in his مانشستر سيتي career to date.
“You could not imagine how much I missed him,” Guardiola said in his post-match press conference. “The last two games have been the Phil that we know. He brings a sense of danger close to the box and he could have scored again.
“We are so happy because I know that he is happy and has joy. Life is fine so the rest is natural with his incredible talent. Some people are sensitive, and he is a guy who needs to feel embraced. With me, with the club. After that he is the player that he is.”
Foden’s resurgence comes at a vital time, with City already under pressure in the title race following early defeats to توتنهام و برايتون. Guardiola’s faith in using him centrally rather than out wide has helped him rediscover his best form. With أرسنال up next, Foden’s creativity and energy could prove decisive in a match that feels crucial even at this early stage.
Manchester City head to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday for a huge الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز test against Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. Guardiola will be hoping Foden can extend his purple patch and make the difference in a game that may set the tone for the title race.
