The Rise and Fall of Phil Foden
In 35 games, 19 goals, eight assists, the sniper who never hesitated to pull the trigger. Last season, Phil Foden wasn’t just Manchester City’s golden boy; he was their sharpest weapon, slicing through defenses and lighting up the Premier League with every touch of the ball. However, the sniper seems to have lost his aim. What happened to the Phil Foden who ruled the pitch with confidence and precision? What happened to the man who seized every opportunity to shoot? What happened to the man the fans once proudly called, “The Sniper?"
Phil Foden’s 2023-24 season was something out of a storybook, a season that has his name put up with the elites. Playing 35 games, Foden tallied an impressive 19 goals and eight assists, showcasing his ability to both finish with precision and create opportunities for his teammates. Every touch he took seemed purposeful, every shot clinical, and every movement perfectly a part of Guardiola's system. Foden’s consistency and importance in Manchester City’s squad were undeniable. His performances did not go unnoticed. Foden swept individual awards, winning Premier League Player of the Season, the Football Writers’ Association “FWA” Footballer of the Year, and the PFA Players’ Player of the Year. Foden’s excellence defined a season to remember. He wasn’t just a player for City, he was the sniper.
Phil Foden's 2024-25 season has seen a notable decline in his offensive contributions compared to his stellar 2023-24 performance. In the current Premier League campaign, Foden has made 10 appearances without scoring a goal and has registered only one assist. Manchester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur November 23rd, 2024: In a 4-0 defeat, Foden struggled to make an impact, failing to register any shots on target or key passes. Manchester City vs. Liverpool FC December 1st, 2024: During a 2-0 loss, Foden's presence was minimal, with limited involvement in attacking plays and no significant contributions. These performances contrast sharply with his previous season, where he was a decisive factor in Manchester City's success. Adding to Foden’s struggles, Manchester City as a whole hasn’t been performing up to their usual standards this season, facing unexpected defeats and inconsistency.
Phil Foden’s sudden fall in form has sparked numerous questions about the factors behind his struggles. New signings and tactical experiments may be pushing him out of his comfort zone, limiting his goal-scoring opportunities. Additionally, concerns about fitness and fatigue linger. The high-intensity demands of last season, along with international commitments, might have left Foden physically drained. Even minor, nagging injuries could be enough to disrupt his explosiveness on the pitch. After a breakout season crowned with multiple individual awards, the weight of expectations has undoubtedly increased. Foden is no longer just a promising talent, he’s expected to deliver consistently every week. This kind of pressure can affect even the most confident players, leading to hesitation and poor performance. Adding to this is Manchester City’s unparalleled squad depth, stacked with world-class talent. The emergence of new signings and rising stars has only heightened the competition for starting spots, further challenging Foden’s rhythm and confidence.
Despite these challenges, Foden possesses all the tools to bounce back. His technical skills, vision, and work ethic remain among the best in the league. Guardiola has always been a master at nurturing players and could adjust Foden’s role to reignite his confidence. A return to a central, consistent position where he can influence the game directly might be exactly what Foden needs. Upcoming fixtures present great opportunities for redemption.
Phil Foden’s story is far from over. The sniper who once lit up the Premier League with every touch and finish may have lost his aim, but champions aren’t defined by how they fall, they’re remembered for how they rise. Foden has all the tools to silence the doubters and reclaim his place among football’s elite. The question isn’t whether he’ll find his form again, it's when.
