Phil Foden, with the chance to score in his third consecutive game, is on the verge of a crucial moment in the upcoming Champions League match against Young Boys.
Manchester City’s progression to the last 16 of the tournament appears likely, presenting an opportunity for their manager, Pep Guardiola, to rotate the squad in the final group stage matches, which would help alleviate the strain on the team’s tightly scheduled roster as the busy Christmas period approaches.
However, an unexpected twist in the form of Erling Haaland’s injury has raised concerns. Haaland had to leave the field at halftime during City’s dominating 6-1 victory over Bournemouth, leaving doubts about his availability for the midweek game.
Guardiola mentioned that Haaland’s return could be either on Tuesday or the following Sunday, as the severity of the injury remains uncertain.
Considering that the opponent, Young Boys, is the lowest-ranked team in the group, and the challenging fixtures ahead against teams like Chelsea, Liverpool, RB Leipzig, Tottenham, and Aston Villa, Guardiola may opt for caution in Haaland’s recovery.
In the event that Haaland is sidelined, Julian Alvarez could step into the central striker position, a role that naturally suits him, potentially vacating the attacking midfield role he has embraced in Kevin De Bruyne’s absence.
Foden emerges as the primary candidate for this role, especially since Guardiola hinted at his suitability when Foden briefly operated in the No.10 position after replacing Haaland in the Bournemouth match.
Foden’s proficiency in this role aligns with his natural preferences, as he has emerged as a No.10 playmaker through his development.
His ability to excel in this position has been evident earlier in the season, notably in the 1-0 Premier League victory over Newcastle.
While Foden’s opportunities to play in this position for the English national team might be limited due to Jude Bellingham’s impressive form, he has a valuable chance to shine at Manchester City.
Given De Bruyne’s injury and Alvarez’s need for rest, Foden may well find himself selected for the crucial Young Boys match.
This could offer Foden the platform to demonstrate his potential as a future successor to De Bruyne, showcasing his versatility and talent as a No.10 playmaker. This role could be a significant stepping stone in his career and solidify his place as a crucial figure for Manchester City.
