Phil Foden Opens Up About Disappointing Season

Phil Foden admits his mental state was 'low' during a disappointing season with Manchester City. The midfielder reflects on off-pitch distractions and fitness issues that affected his performance.

Phil Foden has reflected on a disappointing season, citing off-field distractions and fitness issues as major contributing factors. The England midfielder's form dipped significantly compared to the previous campaign, where he was named the Premier League's Player of the Year. Foden's struggles were evident as he failed to replicate the same level of consistency and brilliance that helped Manchester City secure four consecutive league titles.

“My mental state was low,” Foden admitted, highlighting the challenges he faced both on and off the pitch. Despite the setbacks, Foden is expected to regroup and refocus ahead of the new season, with hopes of regaining his top form and helping Manchester City reclaim their dominance in the Premier League.

Phil Foden's season with Manchester City has been underwhelming, with the talented midfielder often finding himself on the periphery of the team. Despite City's struggles, which culminated in a trophy-less campaign for the first time since 2016/17, Foden's own form and impact have been inconsistent. “Obviously it's been a frustrating season for me,” Foden admitted, reflecting on his disappointing campaign.

Foden's frustrations were compounded by off-pitch challenges that affected his mental state. “I've had a lot of things going on off the pitch mentally,” he revealed, providing some insight into the difficulties he faced during the season. The England international's struggles were evident in his limited playing time, including being left on the bench for City's FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace.

Phil Foden has been open about his struggles earlier this year, admitting that “my body and my mental state was low.” The challenges he faced affected his performance on the pitch, contributing to a season that failed to meet expectations. Despite these difficulties, Foden's manager, Pep Guardiola, has consistently shown support for the young midfielder.

Guardiola's backing was particularly evident after Foden faced abuse from Manchester United fans, who targeted him with taunts about his mother during a recent match. The manager's defense of Foden highlighted the strong bond between them and Guardiola's commitment to protecting his players from unwarranted criticism.

“Sometimes there's things in life that's bigger than football and this season I've struggled a little bit, but hopefully next year I can get my head mentally right and get back where I left the season before, because I know what I am capable of doing.”

Phil Foden: “It’s been a frustrating season for me. I’ve had a lot of things going on off the pitch mentally. It’s one of them, sometimes there’s things in life that are bigger than football. This season I’ve struggled a little bit.

Hopefully come next year I can get my head… pic.twitter.com/dIpqmyo05R

— City Report (@cityreport_) May 21, 2025

Manchester City's season may be ending, but the team's schedule is far from over. After the final Premier League game, City will head to the expanded Club World Cup. However, Phil Foden's participation in the tournament, and potentially England's June internationals, is uncertain due to an ongoing ankle injury. Foden is prioritizing his recovery and is set to have discussions about his availability.

“I have to speak with the club and the international team to see if maybe it's better to rest to get my ankle fully 100% how I want it,” Foden said, highlighting his cautious approach to managing the injury. By taking the time to fully recover, Foden aims to ensure he's in top shape for the challenges ahead.

“I know if everything was OK I would definitely be a bit better on the field, but like I said, sometimes things happen, and you've just got to deal with it and try to move on,” Foden added.

“I've had a difficult season, but I'm just improving, getting back to my best. I know my standards and what I can be, so I'm just looking forward to getting back.”