Enzo Maresca says honest talks have revitalised Foden’s Manchester City form

Enzo Maresca says direct, supportive conversations have helped Phil Foden regain form for Manchester City. Foden has scored four goals in his past two matches, offering hope he can return to the level that earned him the PFA players’ player of the year award in 2023-24.

Maresca, who knew Foden while working as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, said he had spoken with him two or three times, particularly early in the season, to underline his importance and help him improve. City visit Aston Villa on Saturday seeking an eighth straight Premier League win; they lead the table by three points, while Foden faces competition for an attacking place and several teammates’ availability is uncertain.