Phil Foden ‘reborn’, Coach Pep Guardiola also seems ‘revived’

Pep has rediscovered for Foden the “golden key” – the number 10 position, which transforms him into a game-changing player.

In the early hours of September 25, after a 2-0 victory over Huddersfield in the third round of the English League Cup,Coach Pep Guardiola expressed immense pride when talking about his prized pupil Phil Foden.

Number 10 revived

Pep Guardiola affirmed: “Phil Foden has played very well, not just today but also against Manchester United and Napoli. He is happiest playing in the number 10 role, close to the penalty area, where he can create moments that only he can produce.”

Last season, Foden’s performance declined due to injuries and poor fitness, resulting in losing his starting spot in Manchester City’s lineup.

As the 2025-2026 season began, the arrival of newcomer Cherki (the new number 10) and Marmoush’s impressive form further cast doubt on the playing opportunities for the 2000-born player.

However, football always holds unexpected chances. When both Cherki and Marmoush got injured, the door opened for Foden. He seized it impressively: within 11 days, the number 47 midfielder started 4 consecutive matches, scoring 2 goals and assisting 2 times.

The image of a shining Foden, who once earned the Premier League Player of the Season award in 2023-2024, has returned.

The difference came from Pep restoring Foden to his natural role: number 10. In this position, he is not confined to the wing or forced to drop deep but is free to move near the penalty area, exploiting spaces between the opponent’s defensive lines.

Clear evidence: against Manchester United, Foden appeared at the right moment to finish Doku’s breakthrough play. Facing Napoli in the Champions League,with just two precise touches, he set Haaland up for a goal. And against Huddersfield, Foden both scored and assisted, becoming the focal point of every attack.

In just a few matches, Foden has proven that when given trust and the right position, he is the most crucial link in Man City’s smooth gameplay.

Throughout his career, Pep has developed many great talents, but Phil Foden is a special case. He not only regards him as the best product of the Man City academy but also as a player embodying the club’s identity.

“Phil Foden is our player, Manchester City’s own. When the team functions properly, he stands out,” Pep emphasized.

It can be said that Pep has found the “golden key” again for Foden – the number 10 spot, which turns him into a difference-maker.

What does the future hold for Foden?

At 25 years old, Phil Foden is no longer a promising youngster but entering the prime of his career. Recent performances suggest he can replicate, or even surpass, his peak from the 2023-2024 season.

The key is for Foden to maintain consistent form and avoid injuries, which previously cost him opportunities.

In the long term, Foden is seen as a core figure in Man City’s playstyle in the post-Kevin De Bruyne era. With his finishing, playmaking, and intelligent movement, he has all the qualities to become the team’s “soul.”

In the England national team, as the golden generation with Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka rises, Foden promises to be an important piece in their ambitions to conquer major tournaments.

Phil Foden’s strong comeback brings joy not only to Pep Guardiola but also to Man City fans, who were worried seeing him fade last season.

Now, the “blue gem” of Etihad shines again, proving his worth in the number 10 role. If he continues this form, Foden could well become the new leader, guiding Man City toward conquering new heights.

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