Pep Guardiola Hails Phil Foden's Return to Form After Derby Goal

Phil Foden shines as Manchester City crushes Manchester United 3-0

Manchester City defeats Manchester United 3-0 in the Premier League derby, with Phil Foden scoring a crucial goal. Read more.

“When he moves behind the strikers, in that position, the sense of goal, the sense of turns, the quality to keep the ball...”

Phil Foden Praised by Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola lavished praise on Phil Foden after his impressive performance in the Manchester derby, stating, “We missed him so much last season. We need him so much.” Foden's goal in the 3-0 win over Manchester United was a testament to his resurgence, showcasing his skill and creativity on the field.

Foden was instrumental in Manchester City's fourth consecutive Premier League title win, scoring 27 goals in all competitions during the 2023-2024 season. His impressive form earned him the PFA Player of the Season award, beating out fellow nominees Erling Haaland and Rodri. Foden's ability to drift between lines, link play, and strike clinically makes him an irreplaceable asset to the team.

Foden's 2023-2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, with 19 goals and 8 assists in the Premier League. He also played a pivotal role in City's success in the UEFA Champions League, scoring 5 goals and providing 3 assists in just 8 appearances. His performances earned him widespread recognition, including the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year award.

Phil Foden's struggles continued throughout last season, with his goal-scoring form dwindling significantly. Before Sunday's match, his last Premier League goal dated back to January, leaving many questioning his performance. This slump was one of the contributing factors to Manchester City's inconsistent campaign.

However, there are signs that Foden is turning things around. His recent performance has shown glimpses of his usual brilliance, and according to Pep Guardiola, the joy has started returning to his game. This resurgence is crucial for Manchester City's success, as Foden's creativity and goal-scoring ability are vital to the team's overall performance.

Foden's statistics support the notion that he's been working to regain his form. This season, he's scored 13 goals for Manchester City, averaging 0.39 goals per game in club competitions. With 6 assists and a 90% pass completion rate, Foden's impact on the team goes beyond just goal-scoring.

“We missed him so much last season. We need him so much,” Guardiola told reporters after City avoided a third successive defeat in the Premier League.

“When he moves behind the strikers, in that position, the sense of goal, the sense of turns, the quality to keep the ball... There are players that play behind the striker, and most of them pass the ball and stay and (say) 'look how good I make the pass'. He's a guy who makes a pass to the penalty spot like an animal. When he doesn't get the pass (back) he's angry, because he wants to score.”

“We can't forget two seasons ago he was the most important player in the Premier League and was the key player in that title. Last season, for various reason,s he could not be with us.”

Manchester is BLUE 🩵

🩵 3-0 🔴 @okx pic.twitter.com/vSGSSeKNoI

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 14, 2025

Phil Foden showed glimpses of his top form when he scored twice in the FIFA Club World Cup towards the end of the last season. However, injury issues limited his playing time this season, with his only appearance being a brief substitute role in Manchester City's home loss to Tottenham. Given a starting spot on Sunday, Foden quickly ended his Premier League goal drought, scoring within 18 minutes by heading in Jeremy Doku's cutback. This marked his seventh goal in Manchester derbies.

“We missed him so much last season. We need him so much,” said Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, emphasizing Foden's importance to the team. Guardiola expressed optimism about Foden's resurgence, saying, “Hopefully, step by step, he can get back to his best. (With) the joy and happiness we see in his face every day lately, now we are sure that we are going to see the best Phil.”

.@PhilFoden's seventh @PremierLeague derby goal 🩵 pic.twitter.com/EetGGdtBWL

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 14, 2025

Erling Haaland further solidified Manchester City's strong performance with a brace, bringing his Premier League tally to five goals in four games. This impressive form follows his five goals for Norway in the midweek match against Moldova. Haaland's consistent goal-scoring ability makes him a vital component of Manchester City's attacking lineup.

“Erling never disappoints us since he arrived,” Guardiola said. “Erling has the commitment, that is why he signed a contract for many years. He's a special player.”