Unrecognizable Phil Foden: the secret discomfort that worries City

Phil Foden no longer looks like himself. The Manchester City prodigy striker, accustomed to dazzle by his talent and spontaneity, is currently going through a deep crisis, both physical and mental. After a Euro 2024 disappointing with England, the English attacking midfielder struggles to regain his usual level of performance, leaving doubt about his ability to bounce back quickly. The observers notably note a disturbing weight loss and a reserved attitude, very far from the player sure of him who radiated last season under the orders of Pep Guardiola.

The contrast is striking for the one who, barely a few months ago, bore almost alone City to the summits with 28 goals scored in a calendar year, establishing a historic record among European circles. But today, confidence seems to have deserted the young Englishman, to the point of seriously worrying his partners and the technical staff.

According to several internal sources, Manchester City players express a growing concern around their teammate. Foden, described as withdrawn and less energetic, seems to suffer from a “Mental fatigue” confirmed by his relatives. A mysterious physical problem accentuates its discomfort, without the club clearly communicating on its exact nature. His visible weight loss is particularly worried, especially since she could explain her lack of edge in the field.

Why is Foden nothing more than the shadow of himself?

Its statistical return remains honorable this season (15 decisive contributions), but on the field, the real impact is far from what is expected of a player of his caliber.

This worrying situation raises the question of a necessary rest for Foden. At just 24 years old, he accumulated almost 5,000 minutes of play last season between club and selection, an exceptional burden that seems to have left deep traces.

An urgent need for rest?

Thomas Tuchel, coach of England, recently stressed that the player needed support and encouragement to regain lost confidence. In Manchester City, Pep Guardiola remains convinced that this bad pass is only temporary. The return to the best level of Phil Foden therefore seems possible, but it will probably require a well -deserved break to regenerate completely.