Phil Foden has had a challenging season with Manchester City, compounded by an ankle injury he sustained in April. This injury has not only affected his performance on the pitch but has also taken a toll on him mentally. As he reflects on what has been a frustrating year, Foden acknowledges that he might need to forgo England’s upcoming summer internationals as well as the Club World Cup to focus on fully healing his ankle.
After an impressive previous season where he was named Footballer of the Year and scored 27 goals, Foden has not found the back of the net since January. He was a substitute during the recent FA Cup final where City faced defeat against Crystal Palace and has only started one of the last eight matches for the club.
Foden is weighing the importance of rest over trying to impress England’s new manager, Thomas Tuchel, who is set to announce his squad for June fixtures against Andorra and Senegal soon. He recognizes the potential demands of the Club World Cup, which could involve a lengthy stay in the United States for City.
“I just need a few weeks off it without playing football, and obviously I can’t get it at the moment. It’s a bit frustrating to play with niggles like this,” he shared. Progress is being made, but he believes a complete recovery is essential for him to return to his best form.
Explaining his struggles, Foden stated, “It’s been difficult. I picked up an ankle injury against [Manchester] United, and it’s taken time to heal. Sometimes there are things in life that are bigger than football.” Support from Manchester City during this tough period has been invaluable to him.
Foden’s insights echo sentiments shared by many players about the mental and physical strains of a long season. As the club prepares for the first-ever 32-team Club World Cup after a schedule filled with 57 matches, he emphasizes the need for proper recovery. Despite the challenges, Foden expresses hope for a brighter return to form next season, highlighting his awareness of his capabilities and the quality he can bring to the game.
This hopeful perspective reflects a determination not just to recover, but to excel, reminding fans that even amidst adversity, the passion for the game can shine through.