Foden's best season for City was in 2023-24 when he scored 27 goals in all competitions. However, he was left out of England's World Cup squad and spent the early summer watching other sports. This setback has sparked questions about his best position, which remains unclear despite his impressive career. Foden has been used in various roles throughout his career, including as a winger, attacking midfielder, and even as a false 9. His development under Pep Guardiola has been unique, with the manager refining and improving him over the years. Guardiola's approach to refining players, as seen in Lionel Messi, who was 21 when Guardiola took over at Barcelona, suggests that Foden's skills were adapted and improved rather than nurtured from childhood. Foden's ability to adapt to different roles and his bespoke playing style, which English football has never really produced, make his best position a mystery.
Phil Foden's Development Under Pep Guardiola Raises Questions About His Best Position
Phil Foden, 26, has played for England in three international tournaments and won 17 major trophies with Manchester City, including being the Premier League player of the year in 2024.
This article was assembled with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.