Phil Foden Gives Verdict on Updated Role in New-Look Manchester City Attack

Phil Foden has admitted that playing in a different role has made him feel “refreshed” in a Manchester City side brimming with attacking talent.

The Stockport-born star has made an inspiring comeback after a challenging 2024-25 campaign, finding himself deployed in a deeper, box-to-box role this season, rather than his usual attacking midfield position.

This shift comes as City are heavily armed in the forward positions, with players such as Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, Omar Marmoush, Oscar Bobb, and Savinho all available when fit. The January signing of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for £65 million has further strengthened the final third, with the Ghanaian contributing two goals and an assist in his first three appearances.

Foden’s updated role has drawn mixed opinions from fans and pundits, but Pep Guardiola has relied heavily on the 25-year-old this season. Foden has featured 29 times across all competitions, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists so far.

Speaking to Manchester City’s official channels, Foden described how the deeper role has influenced his game:

“I feel like I’m influencing games quite a lot and helping the team build up, finding a new role and playing a lot deeper in some games. I feel refreshed, my mind feels fresh, and I feel like I’m helping the team any way I can. I feel like I’ve got the talent to score and assist in big games.

The team looks at me sometimes to do something and unlock the defence. That’s the player I want to be. I feel I can still improve and get better as a player.”

Over the past six months, Foden has opened up about mental and physical struggles that caused him to miss significant parts of the 2024-25 season. He previously told Mail Sport in 2025:

“Sometimes, there are things in life that are bigger than football. I’ve struggled a little bit. Hopefully next year (in the 2025-26 campaign), I can get my head mentally right and get back to where I left off the season before because I know what I’m capable of doing and the quality I have.”

Since then, Foden has regained his confidence and form, particularly highlighted in November against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League, where he scored twice in a dominant display.

Concerns were raised about Foden’s availability in City’s upcoming fixtures after he left Old Trafford with his right hand heavily bandaged following a half-time substitution, though Guardiola and club staff are monitoring his condition closely.

Conclusion

Phil Foden has shown that adaptability can rejuvenate a player’s impact, with his deeper role allowing him to contribute both creatively and defensively. While City boast a star-studded attacking line, Foden’s form and mental resilience remain key to Guardiola’s plans, especially during a congested schedule with multiple competitions. His focus on improving and influencing games demonstrates why he continues to be an integral part of Manchester City’s evolving squad.

FAQ

• Q: Why is Phil Foden playing in a deeper role this season?
  A: Guardiola has deployed Foden in a box-to-box role to better utilize his creative and defensive abilities in a squad rich with attacking options.
• Q: How has Foden performed in the 2025-26 season?
  A: Foden has made 29 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists across all competitions.
• Q: Has Foden had injury issues recently?
  A: He left a recent match at Old Trafford with his right hand bandaged, but Manchester City are monitoring his recovery.
• Q: How does Foden feel about his current role?
  A: Foden says he feels refreshed and influential in his new position, helping the team both offensively and defensively while continuing to improve.