After England’s first match in their Euro 2024 campaign, the familiar debate has resurfaced: how to maximize Phil Foden’s potential. The Premier League 2023-24 Player of the Season, Foden, had an exceptional season with Manchester City, netting 19 goals and providing eight assists to lead his team to the title. Despite this, his performance against Serbia, where Jude Bellingham excelled in a central role and Bukayo Saka impressed on the right, has reignited discussions about his role.
Fabregas and Ferdinand: Calls for Greater Responsibility
During the Match of the Day post-match analysis on BBC One, former Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas suggested that Foden, 24, needs to assume more responsibility on the pitch. Fabregas commented, “You see Jude [Bellingham] asserting himself, confronting opponents, exuding class. Phil needs to demonstrate the same drive. A player of his calibre and talent shouldn’t always need the coach’s guidance. He needs to show the same hunger as Jude, who currently seems a step ahead in this aspect. Phil needs to reclaim his assertiveness and replicate his Manchester City form.”
Echoing these sentiments, ex-England defender Rio Ferdinand highlighted Bellingham’s demanding presence. “Jude Bellingham has entered this team with a commanding presence, demanding the ball with an intensity that says ‘give me the ball or else’. Phil Foden, in contrast, has a more subdued personality, allowing others to dominate. This needs to change for him to shine.”
Richards: Playing to Foden’s Strengths
Former Manchester City and England defender Micah Richards argued that the team must better cater to Foden’s strengths. “In the first 20 minutes, he found himself in excellent positions. We need to leverage that. At Man City, it’s all about Pep’s system and choreographed movements. It’s disheartening to see a player of his quality not consistently involved,” Richards said.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Richards elaborated on Foden’s positioning. “Footballers need to adapt, but someone with Foden’s talent thrives in central areas. When he’s on the left, he often has to dribble past opponents, which isn’t his forte. Phil excels when he receives the ball on the half-turn in tight spaces, playing one-twos, finding space, and creating or scoring chances.”
As the debate continues, the key to unlocking Foden’s potential for England may lie in finding the right balance between his natural style and the team’s tactical demands.
