Phil Foden: Man City star returns to form with two assists
Foden has scored 10 goals in 48 appearances for City this season, but the last of these goals came in the reverse match against Palace on 14 December.
The midfielder has gone 27 games without scoring a goal so far and Guardiola has moved on by sending him to the bench in recent months; Wednesday’s win against Palace was his third in his first 13 league games and his first since March 4.
“I can say that I had a good first half of the season, fell back a bit and then struggled to find my place in the team,” Foden said.
“This happens when you have quality players around you and they are more talented than you, so I had to wait and be patient, train as hard as I could and when you get the right moment you have to take it.”
Despite not getting on the scoresheet against Palace, Foden reminded the crowd of his talents with an instinctive pass that was converted by Semenyo and wildly celebrated by his manager on the touchline.
It was the first time Foden had made two assists in a City match since December 2023, and the first time he had assisted two goals in the first half of a Premier League match.
He also created five chances against Palace in the first half. No player has scored more goals in the first 45 minutes of a Premier League match this season.
The local player received a standing ovation when he was replaced by John Stones in the 82nd minute, and there were even more cheers throughout the match when he was declared man of the match.
The midfielder showed off his undoubted talent when he was named PFA player of the year just two years ago, but last season he spoke out about off-field issues and injuries contributing to a season in which he “struggled”.
Although he has not been sacked outright this season, City’s commitment to the player is unquestionable as the two sides recently agreed a new contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola told BBC Match of the Day: “In these types of games you play low blocking, that’s the skill of the wingers, like Phil scoring first.” “The quality of this type of play makes the difference and Phil’s body is full of it. I’m more than happy and satisfied.
“There should be a big role in the future. We want the best for Phil, and Phil should show what he has done for many years. He felt how much people loved him, received a standing ovation from his actions. People want him to be happy.”
