Pep Guardiola hails Phil Foden as City’s ‘best in small spaces’ after England snub

Abdul Hady
Abdul Hady is the editor of NutmegXtra, delivering daily Premier League, La Liga, and global football news with a sharp eye for breaking stories.

Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Phil Foden, calling him Manchester City’s “best player by far in small spaces” as the midfielder thrives in a new No.10 role.

– ADEVERTISEMENT –

Foden has started the 2025-26 season in electric form, producing four goal contributions in seven games after struggling for consistency last term. He has started each of City’s last six unbeaten matches, with Guardiola highlighting his unique quality in tight attacking areas.

“He’s one of the best players we have in small spaces in the final third, by far,” Guardiola said. “In terms of assists and goals, how he times an attack and the desire to score a goal is the best we have.”

Despite his club form, Foden has been overlooked again by England boss Thomas Tuchel. With Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer absent, his exclusion has raised eyebrows, especially as the 25-year-old has not featured for the Three Lions since March.

– ADEVERTISEMENT –

City endured their worst start to a season in two decades but have since found momentum, with Foden playing a central role. Guardiola will be counting on his star midfielder again when City face Brentford on Sunday.

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