Manchester City maestro Phil Foden has received a powerful public endorsement from his manager Pep Guardiola, who insists the talented midfielder must "show how good he is" to secure an England recall.
Guardiola's Challenge to Foden
Speaking ahead of City's crucial fixtures, Guardiola delivered a clear message about Foden's international prospects. "He has to show the national team manager how good he is," declared the Catalan tactician, emphasising that consistent performance at club level remains the key to international recognition.
Foden's Stunning Club Form
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder has been in scintillating form for the Premier League champions, producing match-winning performances that have left pundits and fans alike in awe. His technical brilliance, creative vision, and goal-scoring prowess have made him one of City's most influential players this season.
Despite this exceptional club form, Foden has found himself on the periphery of Gareth Southgate's England squad in recent selections, raising questions about his international future.
The England Conundrum
Foden's absence from recent England setups has sparked debate among football analysts and supporters. Many argue that a player of his technical quality and big-game experience should be a automatic selection for the Three Lions.
Guardiola's comments suggest he believes the solution lies in Foden's own hands: "When he plays at the level he's playing now, it's difficult for the manager of the national team not to consider him."
What This Means for Southgate
The England manager now faces increasing pressure to reintegrate the Manchester City star into his plans. With major tournaments on the horizon, Southgate must weigh Foden's undeniable talent against the competition for places in England's attacking positions.
As Guardiola succinctly put it: "The decision belongs to Gareth." But the City manager has clearly laid down the gauntlet, both to his player to maintain his exceptional standards, and to the England setup to recognise them.
