Pep Guardiola has vowed that Manchester City will provide unwavering support to Phil Foden as the midfielder battles both mental fatigue and lingering injury concerns following a challenging season.
Foden, who has been omitted from England’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Andorra and a friendly against Senegal, recently opened up about the toll the season has taken on him—citing burnout and a persistent ankle issue. The 24-year-old, who just last year swept the major individual honors with the FWA Footballer of the Year and PFA Player of the Year awards, has struggled to recapture his best form in recent months.
Speaking ahead of City’s final Premier League fixture against Fulham, Guardiola emphasized the club’s commitment to Foden’s recovery, both physically and mentally.
“Phil is family for us,” Guardiola said. “He’s gone from being a boy in our academy to one of our brightest stars. We want to support him—that's the priority. He needs rest, and he’ll get that after Sunday.”
City need only a point at Craven Cottage to secure a Champions League spot, and Guardiola confirmed that Foden is in contention for the squad. The manager also revealed that, barring any setbacks, the Stockport-born midfielder will travel to the United States for the Club World Cup next month.
“Step by step, Phil will come back,” Guardiola added. “Right now, I don’t care about performances. I want him to feel well again. The rest will follow.”
City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth midweek lifted them to third in the table, and their goal difference puts them in a strong position ahead of the final round of fixtures.
Meanwhile, England manager Thomas Tuchel offered his own insight into Foden’s omission from the latest national squad, describing it as a necessary decision made with the player's well-being in mind.
“Phil had a tough time during the last camp,” Tuchel told talkSPORT. “He’s an outstanding talent, and in training he was fantastic. But he’s struggled to show that same freedom on the pitch, both with City and with us.”
Tuchel also alluded to the emotional fallout from the Manchester derby and the lingering ankle issues that have hampered Foden’s performances.
“He’s still dealing with the ankle problem, and everything combined—it just felt right to give him this time. I admire him a lot, and this wasn’t easy, but it’s what he needs now.”