“You’re using this player in a wrong position and that’s why he has been performing poorly, put him in his right position and he will become a beast on the pitch”- Manchester City Owner has warned Pep Guardiola to stop using “special” £225,000-a-week city player in a wrong position if he wants to get the best out of him
Micah Richards and Shay Given have argued that Phil Foden should play centrally more regularly after a strong performance in Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Luton Town on Sunday.
With Erling Haaland out due to a stress injury to his foot, Julian Alvarez was asked to step up into his regular number nine role, while Foden was selected to play as an offensive midfielder, a position he held while at the academy.
Pep Guardiola has frequently used Foden on the wing, despite the fact that the player has stated that the No.10 position is his choice. With Kevin De Bruyne ill, England’s star has been allowed permission to cut in from the wing this season.
When Haaland is the main striker, he is seen collaborating with Alvarez, although he was granted the freedom of the middle position against Luton. According to Given, Foden appears more at ease playing behind the striker and has found what he does effectively in the role.
“We looked today at Phil Foden coming into that position, with him and Alvarez bouncing off each other,” the former City custodian stated on Match Of The Day 2. I believe it is his preferred position; I prefer Phil in the midst rather than out wide.”
“He looks like a natural in there,” he continued. He never panics on the ball, always chooses the perfect pass, and always seems to have time, which is a hallmark of a really good player.”
Richards agreed and emphasised the attributes Foden brings when deployed as the primary attacking midfielder. “I think he’s one of the best in the league at the half turn and then playing that ball quickly forward,” he said.
“When I watch Phil Foden out on the wing, he sometimes gets isolated.” In terms of passing and quality, and who can play that role, I would say Foden.”
Foden has started three games in the centre of the field this season, scoring one during a 3-1 away win at RB Leipzig in the Champions League.
