Guardiola backs ‘loved’ Foden for ‘big role’ in Manchester City’s future

Guardiola backs ‘loved’ Foden for ‘big role’ in Manchester City’s future

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed Phil Foden to have a ‘big role’ in the club’s future.

Foden was named man of the match as Manchester City kept up the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal with a 3-0 win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad.

The 25-year-old created the opening goal with a brilliant backheel assist for Antoine Semenyo, before teeing up Omar Marmoush for the second goal.

It was an important moment and performance from Foden, whose place in England’s World Cup squad has been in doubt after a below-par campaign.

He received a standing ovation when substituted by the home crowd and Guardiola backed the midfielder to play a vital role in the club’s next chapter. City recently agreed a new long-term contract with the academy product to secure his future until 2030.

Guardiola: ‘Loved’ Foden has been ‘amazing’ for Man City

“He has to have a big role in the future,” Guardiola said at full-time.

“We want the best for him and he has to deliver what he has done for many, many years. He felt how people love him with the standing ovation.