Pep Guardiola has stood by his decision to ease Phil Foden back into action, despite growing calls for the England international to get his first Premier League start of the season. The reigning Premier League Player of the Season has yet to feature in the starting lineup, with Guardiola opting for a cautious approach.
Foden’s late return to Manchester City after his involvement in England’s Euro 2024 campaign was further disrupted when illness forced him to miss two City matches as well as England’s international fixtures earlier this month. Although he made his first start of the season in the Carabao Cup against Watford, Foden found himself back on the bench during City’s draw with Newcastle United in the league.
Coming on as a substitute at St. James’ Park, Foden had an immediate impact, helping City regain control after Newcastle equalized. He nearly snatched a late winner, only to be denied by a fine save from Nick Pope.
Guardiola praised Foden’s intelligence and creativity in his post-match comments: “With Phil in that position, he is maybe one of the best, he’s so clever,” he said. “[But] he’s been out for two, three months. The best player in the league last season has been out. Today, I would say he played the best minutes, really good with the assists and dynamic. I’m happy that step by step, he is coming back.”
Addressing the continued absence of Foden in the starting lineup, Guardiola suggested that the playmaker’s illness had a more significant impact than anticipated.
“He’s been out for a long time,” Guardiola explained. “Sometimes, a player needs 60 or 90 minutes, but I know how strong they are. Gundo is so intelligent with defensive concepts, and that’s why I chose him. We have another game in three days, and another after that. There will be games for everyone.”
Guardiola also defended his midfield choices, including the decision to start Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic in the wake of Rodri’s season-ending injury.
“Kovacic, Rico, and then Bernardo played really well,” he stated. “Rico is so smart and intelligent. You don’t need to give him much instruction because he reads the game perfectly. Football is about movement and decisions, and Rico excels at both. Sometimes you tell players to do specific things, but Rico understands instinctively what’s needed.”
At just 19 years old, Lewis continues to impress with his versatility and composure, even in high-pressure situations. Guardiola noted, “He played exceptionally well, especially in tight spaces. He’s proven himself in games against top sides like Inter and Arsenal. He’s a really good player, and once again, he showed that today.”
As City grapples with several key injuries, including Rodri’s absence, Guardiola’s faith in the younger players like Lewis, and his careful management of returning stars like Foden, will be crucial in the demanding weeks ahead.
