Phil Foden has spoken of his development as a professional footballer after penning a new contract with Manchester City until the summer of 2027.
The England international put an end to the speculation surrounding his negotiations with the football club on Friday afternoon, after extending his stay with his boyhood club.
While his contract was not close to running out, the extended deal shows faith from both the club's side and the player's representatives into his development path at the Etihad Stadium.
It is also understood that as part of the refreshed terms with Manchester City, Foden has seen his performances and achievements under Pep Guardiola rewarded by greater financial incentives and wage packages.
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The Catalan coach has been largely responsible for the all-round development of Foden's game, ever since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2016.
However, speaking upon signing his contract extension, Phil Foden has been keen to credit the club's academy system for the role that played in his growth.
“I think it’s definitely helped. I’ve had so many great coaches in the academy while playing great football, so it’s definitely helped me progress in the first team," he told ManCity.com.
"Everyone has helped me in their own way and helped me become the player I am today.”
One thing that has been evident, despite the great coaching within the club over the years, is Phil Foden's outstanding natural ability.
When asked where he felt he had gained that from, he revealed, “I think it’s just from playing football every single day from when I was a kid.
"Anywhere I can, just practicing my touch against the wall. It’s definitely helped me progress”
But the rise in this Manchester City team does not stop here.
This season, Foden will be looking to take his game even further, and when quizzed on how he looks to improve season upon season, he told the official club website, “Getting more mature, older, understanding the game a bit more and all those things together.
"This year, I think I’ve been scoring a lot more goals so hopefully I can keep going in that direction. I don’t like to put too much pressure on myself. Obviously, I have little goals in my head, but I try not to think too much about them because sometimes it can make you try too hard."
He continued, "I just try to keep focused and keep performing on the pitch. I think I’m just myself. We have such a great team. Everyone’s together, we all fight for each other on the pitch and it’s just really healthy at the moment and everyone’s trying to do the best they can.”
Manchester City take on Liverpool in the Premier League this weekend.
After an unbeaten start to the new campaign, and after being rested in Champions League action in midweek, Phil Foden will be hoping to mark his new deal with another exemplary performance at Anfield.
Topics: Phil Foden, Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Freddie Pye