Phil Foden Determined to Find His Best Form for Man City Ahead of World Cup Phil Foden is highly motivated to regain his place in Manchester City’s starting lineup and rediscover his peak performance ahead of the upcoming World Cup, according to reports. The English midfielder, who has struggled to secure consistent playing time under Pep Guardiola, has expressed his determination to prove himself during the international break and beyond. Foden’s focus is on rekindling his form ahead of the global tournament, which will test his ability to maintain consistency at the highest level. The 25-year-old has faced challenges in recent months, with Guardiola’s tactical approach and squad depth limiting his opportunities. Despite his talent and previous success, Foden has been on the periphery of the team’s plans, prompting him to seek a renewed sense of purpose. His commitment to improving his game and contributing to City’s ambitions is evident, as he aims to silence critics and secure a key role in the squad. Foden’s situation highlights the competitive nature of top-tier football, where even the most talented players must consistently deliver to remain relevant. His determination to find his best form comes at a crucial time, as the World Cup will demand peak performance from all participants. For Foden, the opportunity to showcase his skills on the world stage could be the catalyst needed to reestablish himself as a vital asset for both club and country. The midfielder’s journey reflects the broader challenges faced by players in elite football, where maintaining form and securing a starting role requires constant effort. As he prepares for the World Cup, Foden’s focus on personal growth and team success underscores his resolve to overcome recent setbacks and make a meaningful impact.#pep_guardiola #man_city #world_cup #phil_foden #english_midfielder
Wayne Rooney Calls Phil Foden's Cup Final Appearance a 'Charity' Substitution Wayne Rooney has described Phil Foden's brief appearance for Manchester City in their Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal as a "charity sub" to get him on the pitch. The England international, who has struggled to secure regular playing time this season, was introduced in the final minute of the 2-0 win at Wembley on Sunday. Rooney, speaking on the BBC's Wayne Rooney Show, expressed frustration over Foden's limited involvement in recent matches, suggesting it felt unusual for a top player to be used so sparingly in a high-stakes game. Foden, 25, has been a regular omission from City's starting lineup in several key fixtures this season. He was an unused substitute in City's two UEFA Champions League round-of-16 games against Real Madrid and in recent Premier League matches against Liverpool, Leeds United, West Ham United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur. Despite being named in Thomas Tuchel's squad for upcoming international matches against Uruguay and Japan, Foden has yet to find consistent minutes in club action. Rooney acknowledged Foden's importance to the team, stating that his inclusion in the cup final felt like a gesture to give him experience rather than a reflection of his current form. "I felt sad for him but not sad because he is coming on in a cup final," Rooney said. "There was a game a few days ago when he didn't even get on the pitch. If that was Max Dowman coming on at the end, you would think good experience. But to see Phil Foden coming on in a cup final, it felt like a charity sub to get him on the pitch." The former Manchester United and England forward also raised concerns about Foden's reduced role, noting that the player had been in good form earlier in the season.#manchester_city #thomas_tuchel #wayne_rooney #carabao_cup #phil_foden
Wayne Rooney Criticizes Phil Foden's Cup Final Substitution Phil Foden’s stoppage-time appearance in Manchester City’s Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal drew criticism from former England captain Wayne Rooney, who likened the substitution to a “charity” gesture. The 25-year-old, who collected his 18th trophy as a City player, came on in the 90th minute to replace Rayan Cherki, a move that sparked debate about his limited role in recent matches. Foden had been omitted from City’s starting lineup in four of their past 13 games across all competitions, with players like Cherki, Antoine Semenyo, and Savinho preferred over him. His last goal came on 14 December, and he has since failed to find the net in 20 consecutive appearances. Despite the substitution in the final, Rooney suggested the decision felt like a token effort to give Foden playing time. Speaking on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show, the former Manchester United forward expressed mixed feelings. “I felt sad for him but not sad because he is coming on in a cup final,” Rooney said. “There was a game a few days ago when he didn’t even get on the pitch. If that was Max Dowman coming on at the end, you would think good experience. But to see Phil Foden coming on in a cup final, it felt like a charity sub to get him on the pitch.” Rooney questioned the lack of consistent opportunities for Foden, noting his recent form and status as a top player. “I don’t know what has happened, he is a top player. It feels strange he can’t get anywhere near the team. It feels like something has gone on there,” he added. “I thought Foden was in good form but all of a sudden we haven’t seen him get any minutes. Firstly he will be pleased they won the cup but from a selfish point of view, he would have wanted to be out there and having an influence.#manchester_city #rayan_cherki #wayne_rooney #carabao_cup_final #phil_foden
