Phil Foden hints at demand for significant Manchester City and England position change

Phil Foden has suggested in a recent interview that he could be eyeing up a significant change of role for either club or country in the not too distant future.

The Manchester City academy product rose through the system at the City Football Academy largely playing in a central attacking role.

However, through the coaching and guidance of Pep Guardiola since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2016, Foden has seen his role change significantly.

The 22 year-old now largely operates as a wide-winger for Manchester City, and to much success especially when attacking from the left-forward position.

Despite that success, Foden does still see himself performing in a different role in the coming years - and perhaps when playing personnel within Pep Guardiola's squad changes due to ageing players.

Speaking during a recent interview relayed by the Times, Phil Foden has admitted that longer-term, he does not see himself playing in a wide role for Manchester City.

The England international explained, “I see myself playing behind the striker in the future or one of the eights or tens at City.

"Hopefully in the future I can play there more and show more of my game that I know I am capable of.”

However, Foden is well aware of the talent in the aforementioned roles already, especially within the England set-up.

"We’ve got some great players in this (England) team,” Foden continued.

“I like Mase (Mason Mount) a lot and Madders (James Maddison) as well, the way he plays.

"Players who can receive it in the pocket on the half-turn and can make the killer pass or shoot from distance."

Phil Foden and the England international team got their 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage campaign off to the perfect start on Monday afternoon.

Taking on Iran - ranked 20th in the world - Gareth Southgate's side cruised to a 6-2 victory on matchday one.

That win puts them firmly in first position heading into Friday night's clash with the United States, after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Wales.

For Phil Foden, Monday brought his first appearance in the World Cup, albeit coming on from the substitutes bench with 20 minutes to play.

Eight years ago today, a certain @PhilFoden was watching on as a ballboy for #ManCity at the Etihad Stadium... 🥰💙 pic.twitter.com/mPpHQugxiT

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) November 22, 2022