Foden has had an exceptional season, stepping up admirably in the absence of crucial teammates. With 18 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances across various competitions, he has solidified his position as a pivotal player under Pep Guardiola.
The 23-year-old consistently dazzles fans with his technical prowess, showcasing his skills in nearly every match. Notably, Foden’s commendable work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed.
This season, Foden has frequently operated as a ‘number 10’, a role he openly expresses fondness for. He recently shared why he finds this position particularly enjoyable.
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Pep Guardiola to make four changes, £54m player to start… Man City predicted line-up vs Arsenal
Manchester City’s Anticipated Starting XI vs Arsenal
Injury Updates and Tactical Adjustments
Ahead of the clash against Arsenal, Guardiola faces injury concerns and tactical decisions.
Defensive Adjustments
- Injuries: Guardiola confirmed John Stones and Kyle Walker’s absence due to injuries. However, Ederson’s recovery is promising.
- Possible Adjustments: Manuel Akanji might replace the injured Kyle Walker at right-back, with Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake likely retaining their positions.
Midfield Dynamics
- Midfield Stability: Rodri is expected to anchor the midfield, while Bernardo Silva’s experience could see him start alongside Kevin De Bruyne, who missed the last match due to injury.
Attacking Configurations
- Flank Dynamics: Phil Foden could shift to the right flank, possibly with Bernardo Silva moving into midfield.
- Forward Line: Erling Haaland is anticipated to lead the line, aiming to capitalize on opportunities against Arsenal’s defense.
Possible Inclusion of Jack Grealish
- Fitness Assessment: Guardiola noted Jack Grealish’s positive training, hinting at his potential inclusion.
- Impactful Presence: Grealish’s experience in big games could see him replace Doku on the left wing.
Predicted Lineup: Ederson, Akanji, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodri, Bernardo, De Bruyne, Foden, Haaland, Grealish
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Steve Bruce shares what Pep Guardiola told him about ‘unbelievable’ Man City star back in 2020
In 2020, Steve Bruce disclosed insights from a conversation with Pep Guardiola regarding a standout player at Manchester City. With Guardiola’s extensive tenure at the club since 2016, he has overseen numerous player transitions. Yet, it’s intriguing to learn what the esteemed City manager shared with a former Premier League manager about one of his current talents.
Bruce shares what Guardiola told him about City star back in 2020
During a chat with BBC 5 Live Sport, Bruce reflected on an exchange he had with Pep before a game against his team. Pep expressed confidence in Foden, mentioning they didn’t need to replace Silva because they had a talented youngster in him. Bruce recalled this conversation from four or five years ago, marveling at Foden’s remarkable growth. Despite his youth, Foden has already secured multiple Premier League titles, a testament to his talent.
Silva’s departure from the Etihad Stadium in 2019 marked the end of a decade-long stint, during which he made 436 appearances, scoring 77 goals and providing 140 assists, while clinching four Premier League titles.
Foden’s rise to prominence, despite debuting in November 2017, underscores Guardiola’s belief in his abilities. Silva, too, endorsed Foden, affirming Manchester City’s future was secure with him in the lineup. Foden’s current season stats, boasting 21 goals and 10 assists in 44 games, validate the trust placed in him by Silva and Guardiola.
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‘The smartest’… Vitaliy Mykolenko says Oleksandr Zinchenko used to rave about one Man City legend in private
Certainly, Zinchenko had the opportunity to both play alongside and train with the esteemed Spanish midfielder at the Etihad Stadium. The current Arsenal defender asserted in August of the previous year that David Silva, the retired maestro, stood out as the best player he had ever shared the field with. The Ukrainian player acknowledged feeling “fortunate” to have experienced playing with someone of David Silva’s caliber, emphasizing the midfielder’s exceptional ability to comprehend the game at an elevated level.
Zinchenko and Silva, as teammates, clinched the Premier League titles for the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 seasons, along with the FA Cup and two Carabao Cup triumphs. Given his role as a left-back, the 27-year-old had the unique opportunity to be on the same side as the World Cup winner, who was strategically positioned as a left-sided midfielder by manager Pep Guardiola. When asked about his Premier League dream teammate, Vitaliy Mykolenko disclosed that Zinchenko consistently praised David Silva, describing him as the smartest and most technically adept player. “Second one, David Silva. [Oleksandr] Zinchenko said about him he’s the smartest player. Technical, smart,” Mykolenko shared in an interview with Sky Sports.
Leighton Baines, a legendary figure at Goodison Park, was the first choice of the Everton defender when asked about his preferred Premier League icon. In December, Unai Emery expressed his desire to have David Silva on his current Aston Villa team when given the opportunity to select any player from past Premier League icons. It comes as no surprise that David Silva has left a lasting impact on teammates, players, and managers throughout the football community. His prowess on the field was not only mesmerizing for spectators but also appeared to be a valuable lesson in football every time he graced the pitch, particularly during his stints with Manchester City and Valencia.
