During last month’s international break, several players from Manchester City’s first-team squad participated in Nations League fixtures. As the next round of matches began, three City players started in England’s recent 2-1 loss at Wembley Stadium.
One of these players, Phil Foden, didn’t feature in any of England’s games during the previous international break. Ahead of the defeat to Greece, Lee Carsley suggested that Foden is more effective in central positions than playing out wide.
Foden started centrally alongside Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice. However, his performance attracted some criticism. Wayne Rooney, comparing the trio of Foden, Palmer, and Bellingham, claimed that Foden is England’s best player. Rooney said, “Foden, for me, is England’s best. I know he hasn’t played much this season for City, but at his best, he’s the top talent England has. Cole Palmer has been exceptional, and Jude Bellingham is doing great things at Real Madrid, but Foden is the one I enjoy watching the most.”
Despite Rooney’s praise, Foden struggled in the match against Greece. In 72 minutes, with 32 touches, he failed to make a key pass, dribble, or shot on goal. In contrast, Bellingham, playing in an advanced role with Foden, registered three shots, five successful dribbles, and one key pass. Paul Robinson noted how the two midfielders appeared to be getting in each other’s way, with Bellingham ultimately overshadowing Foden.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are reportedly preparing for a major change. David Ornstein recently reported that Txiki Begiristain, the club’s sporting director, is set to leave in 2025 after 13 years at the helm. During his tenure, Begiristain played a key role in appointing Pep Guardiola as manager and overseeing numerous transfer deals. The club is now said to be actively searching for his replacement.
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