Phil Foden appears to be unstoppable right now, but this hasn’t always been the case.
Phil Foden has tallied 15 goals and 10 assists in 36 games across all competitions, maybe making this his greatest season wearing a Manchester City shirt.
After Kevin De Bruyne’s injury kept him out of play, the 23-year-old stepped up his game, and he hasn’t stopped since.
Foden has spent most of the season playing in a more central midfield role, which has allowed him to showcase his entire skill set and even greater control over games.
With regards to goals, assists, and game reading, Pep Guardiola is ecstatic about his young player, saying recently: “Phil is having his most influential season in the team.” He’s a very good player.
A few years prior, though, the City chief wasn’t as happy.
Guardiola chastised Foden for failing to follow his instructions as he attempted a free kick during a 2020–21 Champions League match against Porto.
The Telegraph’s James Ducker reports that Guardiola said, “F****** hell, Phil!” F****** hell! You didn’t follow my instructions!”
Foden took exception to the X-rated comment, believing Guardiola was applying different rules to different players.
He was “furious” that his manager had called him out, so much so that, before many of his colleagues had returned, he raced down the tunnel and changed in the dressing room.
Foden was waiting for Guardiola at the door, and he let loose. “Never do that to me again!” he pleaded with his management. You wouldn’t treat other gamers that way.
At the moment, Guardiola expressed regret to the midfield player, but he thought he should go further. In a meeting with the entire team the next day, Guardiola delivered a second apology and decided to fine himself.
The organization was grateful that the money went directly into the athletes’ pockets. Guardiola, who has been waiting for Foden to do so for some time, also thought it was admirable that Foden spoke up for himself.
The incident is said to have been a turning point in Foden’s career at City and a crucial step in his development from a youngster to a man.
Guardiola will undoubtedly continue to criticize every City player, but it’s reasonable to assume that the Spaniard will pause before criticizing the England player once more.