We have been staring at Phil Foden for close to a decade – how well do we actually know him? | Jonathan Liew
Jonathan Liew argues that Phil Foden enters a defining Manchester City season under new manager Enzo Maresca, after nearly a decade in the spotlight without a settled understanding of his best role. Having succeeded under Pep Guardiola, Foden’s adaptability has been an asset, but it has also left him something of an enigma; Maresca’s demanding tactical system may finally clarify what type of player he is.
Foden is now 26, with 49 England caps and 225 Premier League appearances, yet he has played across wide forward, attacking midfield, false nine and central roles. Liew says he is highly capable in several areas without being clearly world-class in one, aside from an unusually prolific 2023-24 season featuring long-range goals. Guardiola repeatedly changed his view of Foden’s ideal position, at times favouring the wing and later describing him as a freer No 10 close to goal.
- Foden’s new manager may finally define his best position.
- Guardiola’s frequent reshuffling helped preserve the uncertainty.
- Despite major experience, Foden remains difficult to categorise.