Pep Guardiola says Phil Foden is just like player Man City sold for £42.5m

Redaction Simon Brett with Tom Procter
Published on 2024-02-26 11:00:00

In Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Bournemouth, Pep Guardiola praised Phil Foden and drew comparisons to Cole Palmer.

The win brought City within a point of Liverpool in the title race, with Arsenal’s 4-1 win over Newcastle United tightens the top three teams to just two points apart.

Foden’s decisive goal came after 24 minutes, following Erling Haaland’s shot that forced a save from the Bournemouth goalkeeper. This goal marked Foden’s 16th of the season, matching his tally from the previous season and showcasing his impressive form.

Guardiola commended Foden’s scoring ability and likened it to his instincts in front of goal to that of Cole Palmer.

He said (via Hayters TV): “He’s young and can improve. Always I have the feeling he has a sense of goal, can score. I met him when he was 16, a little bit like Cole Palmer; when they arrive, always I have the feeling they can score. And Phil has this incredible ability…

“I think in the Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia, he played really good and he understands more the game and his work ethic and how he runs and everything. He’s becoming a top, top-class player!”

Foden’s exceptional performance this season, with 16 goals by the end of February, has pundits excited about what he could achieve.

The comparison to Palmer and acknowledgment of his goal-scoring ability show Foden’s potential to become a key player for City.

Notably, pundit Don Hutchison also praised Foden’s skills after the game, likening him to Palmer in terms of their ability to take the ball on the back foot.

Foden’s goal against Bournemouth further solidified his reputation as a goal-scoring midfielder, akin to Ilkay Gundogan’s role in the team.

If Foden maintains his stellar form until the end of the season, he could be a strong contender for City’s player of the season, given his consistency in the absence and return of key players.

Overall, Foden’s impact and development this season have been exceptional, and his contributions to City’s title challenge make him a vital asset for Guardiola’s team.

With continued success in front of goal, Foden’s emergence as a key player for City is becoming increasingly evident.

Read Original article on Manchester City News