Phil Foden has stated he 'has to' step up and be one of the leaders at Manchester City this season, as he eyes a fresh start under new manager Enzo Maresca. The England international is among the few senior players on the pre-season tour in Asia, having missed out on the World Cup, and is keen to rediscover his best form.
Foden targets captaincy group role
Beyond his personal form, Foden wants a place in the club's captaincy group, which typically consists of five or six senior players who manage the dressing room at the Etihad. With Bernardo Silva and John Stones having departed and Rodri potentially moving to Real Madrid, there are several vacancies to fill.
Josko Gvardiol is also looking to step into that leadership team, but Foden—now the longest-serving player at City following the exits of Stones and Silva—is eager to put his hand up. Despite form struggles over the past two seasons, the 26-year-old is determined to take on a leading role in the squad.
Foden embraces new responsibility
Speaking at a press conference in Korea, Foden said: "I have to be really. I’ve been at the club for so long, I’m one of the longest here so this season I have to be one of the leaders, one of the captains. I’m looking forward to that new responsibility and trying to take leadership."
Foden has been tasked with setting an example for the younger players during the tour, though he won't get the chance to link up with young winger Ryan McAidoo in Wednesday's friendly against the K-League All Stars. McAidoo, who impressed off the bench in the shootout defeat to Inter, has a minor shoulder problem that will keep him out of the match.
