Foden’s Manchester City resurgence gives Maresca another attacking option

Phil Foden has transformed his fortunes at Manchester City, moving from an overlooked figure under Pep Guardiola last season to one of the team’s outstanding players this campaign.

The England international scored a hat-trick and set up a goal for Cherki in City’s emphatic 5-1 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League on Tuesday. His performance helped the club return to winning ways in Europe’s premier club competition.

“I really enjoyed it,” Foden said after the match.

The 25-year-old operated as a false nine, a position in which the Manchester-born player appeared particularly comfortable. He also believes his recent performances represent an important step towards rediscovering his best form.

“I still have a long way to go to reach my best level, but I am heading in the right direction, and scoring goals always helps me,” he said.

Foden’s revival has been welcomed by his manager. Maresca described him as one of the best English players and said he was working to help him regain his previous standards.

“He was not at his best during the past two or three seasons for different reasons, but I know how good he is and I am trying to help him,” Maresca said. “I am sure he will be a valuable addition for us this season.”

A timely return

Foden’s return has come at an important moment for City, with no natural alternative to Erling Haaland. One of the options Maresca is considering to cover for the Norway international, Semenyo, is expected to be unavailable for eight weeks.

Foden had already ended a 10-month wait for a goal when he scored against Ipswich Town in his previous appearance. He has now scored four times across his last two matches.

At the Etihad Stadium, Foden holds a special status. He is a local player, a graduate of Manchester City’s academy and a lifelong supporter of the club. His performances have regularly prompted fans to sing that he is “one of us” as he carries the ball forward on his left foot.

That standing appeared distant during the recent decline in his form. Foden went from being regarded as one of the Premier League’s best players to becoming a peripheral figure under Guardiola. His performances and influence diminished, and he was eventually left out of Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup last summer, forcing him to watch the tournament from home.

Foden remains hopeful that his latest form can lead to an England recall. If he maintains the level he has shown in his past two matches, his chances of representing his country again will increase.

The immediate challenge is to prove that this strong comeback is permanent rather than simply the result of two good games.