Foden Frustrated in Flat England Win: Can He Adapt or is Southgate to Blame?
England’s stuttering start to Euro 2024 has tongues wagging, with Phil Foden curiously the target. Despite a narrow win, the Three Lions’ display lacked attacking fluency, and the Manchester City star couldn’t replicate his club form.
So, what gives? Foden, the reigning Premier League Player of the Year, looked sharp early, but England’s tactics left him isolated on the left. Unlike at City, where Kevin De Bruyne orchestrates play and Erling Haaland stretches defenses, Foden found himself amidst a midfield logjam and a deep-lying Kane.
Fans and pundits are quick to criticize, demanding Foden replicate his City magic. But is that fair? England’s long-ball tactics don’t suit his skillset. Imagine a Ferrari stuck in rush hour traffic!
Cesc Fabregas, known for his outspokenness, highlighted the issue: “It’s about mentality, not skill,” he declared on BBC. “Foden, Bellingham – these players are world-class. Do they want the responsibility?” Spicy comments, but is Fabregas right to single out Foden after just one game?
Foden himself remained unfazed. His post-match Instagram? A simple “Job done. Onto the next one.” England got the result, but questions linger.
Can Southgate adapt his tactics to unleash Foden’s talent? Or will the City star be a frustrated passenger in a pragmatic approach? The Euros are a marathon, not a sprint. Foden will get his chance to shine, and hopefully, the early wobbles will be a distant memory by the final whistle.
