The inclusion of two players in the Manchester City starting lineup will change everything | OneFootball

During the closing stages of Manchester City’s 2-nil defeat to Tottenham, two key players for Manchester City returned to the pitch. Phil Foden and Rodri both came on as late substitutes. The pair didn’t change last Saturday’s result, but it was no coincidence that Pep Guardiola’s side did see an upturn in their performance following their introduction. Looking ahead, when the pair can return to the starting lineup, it should make Pep Guardiola’s side an even more formidable proposition to their opponents.

Phil Foden and Rodri will have key roles to play for Manchester City when they are fully fit.

Rodri and Phil Foden came on for the final 15 minutes of Manchester City’s defeat to Tottenham. Those were their first minutes of the new season after they missed out on selection in the City matchday squad for their win over Wolves. Both players got through the match unscathed, which was a positive for Pep Guardiola’s side. Foden added life to a lacklustre City side while he was on the pitch. In the case of Rodri, the fact that he got through the match is a major positive.

Looking further ahead, when Foden and Rodri return to the City starting lineup, it will give Pep Guardiola’s side a tremendous boost. Both players are key players for their team. They are proven commodities at the highest level and will be important players in Manchester City’s rebuild. Rodri is a Ballon d’Or winner, and at his best he is the best midfielder in world football. Foden is a match winner at his best and will be eager to bounce back hard after a disappointing 24/25 season.

The question becomes when will the pair return to the Manchester City starting lineup? It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Foden start against Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Sunday. He looks to be ready to go. Rodri’s return to the City starting lineup will likely come after the upcoming international break. But when their returns to Pep Guardiola’s starting lineup do occur, Manchester City will be a more dangerous proposition. There is no doubt about that.