Phil Foden’s recent struggles with form have raised alarm bells within the Manchester City camp, with teammates reportedly concerned about the midfielder’s mental and physical well-being. After a challenging Euro 2024 campaign and a dip in club performance, Foden is grappling with what insiders are calling “mental fatigue.”
A Dip in Form
Foden’s career trajectory has taken a downturn over the past 18 months. Once regarded as one of England’s brightest talents, the midfielder has faced mounting challenges both at Manchester City and with the national team. While City manager Pep Guardiola continues to back him, Foden’s place in the England squad under Thomas Tuchel is far from secure after a disappointing Euros campaign. The midfielder has been relegated to the bench, adding to the pressure.
Concerns Within the Camp
According to The Daily Mail, Foden’s City teammates have privately expressed concern over his mental state. The 23-year-old recently moved his family to a quieter location near Northwich, away from the bustle of Manchester. The move was seen as an attempt to escape the pressures of professional football, with Foden reportedly taking up fishing to unwind. Observers have also noted that the midfielder appears to have lost weight.
Despite these visible signs of strain, Guardiola remains unconcerned, believing that fluctuations in form are natural in a player’s career. The City boss is confident that Foden will recover his spark with time and support.
Heavy Workload Taking Its Toll
Foden’s struggles could be linked to his intense workload last season. He logged the second-highest number of minutes for City, with 4,276 minutes of action—second only to Rodri. Adding to the burden, he played 720 minutes at Euro 2024, bringing his total game time close to a staggering 5,000 minutes for the season.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Foden remains determined to regain his form. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the midfielder is eager to reclaim his spot in the national team and prove his worth under Tuchel. His journey to recovery will be closely watched by both club and country.