In Focus: Man City star Foden ready to finally fulfil potential

Phil Foden was at his dazzling best against Newcastle last weekend.

The Magpies' defenders were mesmerised as the Manchester City maestro weaved in and out, playing incisive passes and setting up Julian Alvarez to score the game's only goal.

There had been doubts about Foden's place in Pep Guardiola's team prior to the start of the season but few remain now.

Ahead of City's trip to Sheffield United, we take a look at what Foden is bringing to the side in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne.

Back to form

Guardiola was effusive in his praise of Foden after the 1-0 win over the Tynesiders.

He said: "It's one of the best [performances] I have seen. He has an incredible ability between the lines. The way he turns and attacks the last lines.

"Managers adapt skills to the players we have, or the problems we have right now. Phil, I know how good he is, how good he is as a striker or left wing.

"I am happy because I have the feeling he is coming back."

Creative influence

Foden started on the right of the Citizens' attacking quartet against Newcastle, often drifting into central areas in what was essentially a free role.

No City player created as many chances as Foden (seven) and only Rodri (24) completed more final third passes than the England international (20).

He also completed three take-ons, more than any of his team-mates, and threatened to score himself with three shots on goal.

Such a performance bodes well for Foden's long-term future in the team.

Opportunity knocks

After the exits of Riyad Mahrez and Ilkay Gundogan — as well as De Bruyne's injury — City's options in midfield are more limited than in recent years.

Further signings could be made before the close of the transfer window but for now Foden has been given an opportunity to start regularly and prove himself indispensable.

The 23-year-old has, like many City players under Guardiola, often been rotated in and out of the team — but his ambition is now to become a constant in the starting XI.

He said: "That's the aim, because there are so many quality players and that is the level.

"I just try to not think about that and do my best every game and work hard for the team. But that is me every game, trying to get better and wanting more from myself."

More to come

Foden enjoyed his most productive Premier League season for City in 2022-23, scoring 11 goals from 32 appearances, although only 22 of those were starts.

A player with such huge potential and obvious talent could certainly benefit from a season of regular football, in a position that suits his game best.

And 2023-24 looks like being the perfect opportunity for exactly that.

If Foden's performance against Newcastle is a sign of things to come this term, Premier League defenders should be worried and England fans should be excited, with Euro 2024 just around the corner.

First and foremost, though, City's homegrown hero will want to build on last weekend's display by impressing against the Blades at Bramall Lane.