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Phil Foden might be running on empty, but Pep Guardiola isn’t ready to let his former golden boy miss Manchester City’s biggest summer adventure.
The City boss confirmed the 24-year-old midfielder will travel to America for the FIFA Club World Cup, even though he’s publicly admitted Foden desperately needs a break from football.
England Snub Reveals Deeper Problems
Foden’s struggles hit rock bottom when he asked to be dropped from England’s upcoming fixtures against Andorra and Senegal. The player who won Premier League Player of the Year just 12 months ago couldn’t face pulling on the Three Lions shirt again.
Thomas Tuchel’s England squad will have to make do without their former star man as Foden battles both form and fitness issues.
“He needs rest and it’s going to happen now after Sunday,” Guardiola said. “Step by step he is going to come back.”
Ankle Injury Adds to Foden’s Woes
The Stockport-born playmaker has been carrying an ankle problem that’s contributed to his disappointing campaign. But Guardiola insists Foden’s well-being comes before performances.
“I don’t care about his performance on the pitch, I want him to feel good,” the Spanish coach revealed. “After the rest it will come in an easy way.”
June 12 Clash Creates Headache
City face a scheduling nightmare with their Club World Cup plans. The team flies to Florida on June 12 – the exact same day England’s under-21s kick off their European Championships against Czech Republic.
James McAtee and Rico Lewis find themselves caught in the middle of this international tug-of-war.
Guardiola’s Cheeky Dig at FA
Never one to miss a chance for controversy, Guardiola threw some shade at the Football Association over player payments.
“I don’t know who is going to pay the salary in these months – national teams or the club,” he said with his trademark grin. “If they decide they are going to the under-21s, I don’t know who is going to pay it.”
The City boss confirmed talks between the club and FA will determine whether McAtee and Lewis join the young Lions or head to America.
Walker Won’t Return for Tournament
Kyle Walker’s City chapter remains firmly closed. The England right-back joined AC Milan on loan in January and won’t rejoin the squad for the Club World Cup, despite having 12 months left on his Etihad contract.
Philadelphia Awaits City’s Arrival
Manchester City will begin their Club World Cup campaign against Wydad AC in Philadelphia on June 18. The tournament represents a chance for redemption after a turbulent domestic season.
For Foden, it might be the perfect stage to rediscover the magic that made him England’s brightest talent just one year ago.
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