There were signs against Manchester United that Phil Foden is edging closer to his best | OneFootball

For Manchester City to contend on multiple fronts this season, they need Phil Foden fit and firing. At his best, Foden is a crucial component of Pep Guardiola’s side. His goal scoring and playmaking ability from midfield is almost second to none in the City squad. Foden endured a difficult 24/25 season, but there were signs at the FIFA Club World Cup that he was working his way back to his best.

After a delayed start to the 25/26 season, Foden put in a brilliant performance in Manchester City’s 3-nil win over Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium yesterday. That was a massive positive from yesterday’s Manchester derby for Manchester City.

Phil Foden played in midfield yesterday and was a constant threat throughout the game.

It was great to see Phil Foden return to the Manchester City starting lineup yesterday. His presence had been missed in City’s first three matches this season. The England international lined up in midfield yesterday. He quickly set about getting to work in yesterday’s Manchester derby. By the time the game ended, Foden had again made his mark against Manchester United.

Manchester City would take the lead through a Phil Foden header in the 18th minute of yesterday’s match. It was a typical Foden finish as he ghosted into the penalty area to head home from a Jeremy Doku cross to set City on their way. Foden’s celebration showed what the goal meant to him. He shared the moment with the Manchester City fans, and there was an outpouring of emotion from the England international. That was great to see.

Outside of that moment, Foden’s overall performance was superb. He glided around the pitch in typical Foden fashion. At times he made the game look easy. The zip was back in Foden’s step, which was evident in the game’s early stages. His talent shone through as the game progressed. The combination play between Nico O’Reilly and Phil Foden to set up Erling Haaland’s first goal of the game illustrated this. The quality touches that define Foden’s play were there to see throughout the game. There was a confidence in the way Phil Foden played. That defines Foden as a player and it was great to see him smiling on the pitch and tormenting Manchester City’s arch-rivals.

Pep Guardiola was thrilled with Phil Foden’s performance.

Pep Guardiola was thrilled with Foden’s performance against Manchester United. Speaking after his team’s win, Guardiola spoke of how much his team had missed the England international. Speaking on Foden, and his performance, Guardiola said: “We missed him so much. He moved behind the striker. He has the sense of the team and quality to keep the ball. Most play the ball and say, ‘look how good the pass was’. He makes the pass and zoom!”

“We cannot forget two seasons ago when we won the last game against West Ham. He was the key player to win the Premier League.”

“Last season, for injuries and other reasons he could not be with us but hopefully step by step he can get back.”

“He is a Manchester City supporter, and he can do what he’s able to do. Joy and happiness on his face and we’re going to have the best Phil.”

Summary.

It was great to see Phil Foden play exceptionally well yesterday against Manchester United and do it in the manner that typifies Foden at his best. The fact he had a smile on his face was also great see. There were clear signs that Foden can return to his dominant best. If he can get back to that level Manchester City could achieve anything this season.