While playing for Manchester City and England, Phil Foden embarrassed some of the best defenders in global football. However, he has now disclosed who the toughest opponent he has ever faced is.
Since making his senior City debut in 2017 under Pep Guardiola, Foden has experienced an incredible ascent.
The 23-year-old forward was a vital member of the City team that won a historic triple, which included their first-ever Champions League victory, last season. He currently has five Premier League winners’ medals in his collection.
He has stood shoulder to shoulder with some of the best full-backs in the game both at home and in Europe. However, Foden recently acknowledged in an interview that he frequently faces the most formidable full-back opponent he has encountered.
Reece James of Chelsea is the best full-back Foden has ever faced, he said in a recent Q&A with host and journalist Olivia Buzaglo.
Though their rivalry dates back much deeper, Foden and James are well acquainted from their previous Premier League matches between City and Chelsea.
Though the two are considerably younger, Foden is seen in a well-known picture protecting the ball from James.
The shot was taken during the 2013–14 season, when the two would have been 13 or 14 years old, based on the uniforms they are wearing.
James and Foden will face off against each other one more on Sunday at Stamford Bridge when Chelsea hosts Premier League winners City.
Despite having a slow start to the season, Chelsea will want to improve after defeating Tottenham 4-1 earlier this week.
Following Tottenham’s defeat at the hands of Wolves on Saturday, City will want to maintain their lead at the top of the table.
Even though James hasn’t played much for Gareth Southgate’s team this season, Foden and James are acquainted from their time together on the international scene with England.
The Chelsea player missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury, therefore he has only made one appearance for England this year.
Despite having just recovered from a hamstring injury, the full-back declined to be called up to the England team for the forthcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.