Fans think it’s ‘time for a conversation’ about one Man City player after his performance against Liverpool

Man City fans think one player needs to 'stop being protected' following the club's 2-0 loss to Liverpool at the Etihad.

Liverpool took a massive step to reclaiming the Premier League title off their long standing rivals with a comfortable win in Manchester.

Guardiola's men have won the last four titles since Liverpool's last triumph, but goals from Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai put Arne Slot's side 11 points clear at the top.

The result was never really in any doubt despite Man City's best efforts, but fans were left scratching their heads over one man's performance.

Phil Foden was far and away the best performer in the Premier League last year and deservedly picked up the PFA POTY award, however, his performances this season have left a lot to be desired with defeat to Liverpool proving to be the final straw for some fans.

The England star played all 90 minutes, failing to register a key pass and losing possession 15 times.

Following the match, City fans took to social media to claim Foden has been overly protected for his poor form this season despite a great start to 2025.

One fan wrote: "Foden needs to start getting criticised more man. Love him but it won’t help him how everyone protects him. He’s been shambolical this season & he was the face of Manchester City last season."

Phil Foden against Liverpool in 2025- Getty

Another added: "Phil Foden looks far worse than Kevin De Bruyne but hey, maybe we can give an argument about "Kevin's legs are gone" and not look stupid."

A third commented: "Foden Foden Foden I don’t see anything at all and haven’t for MONTHS."

A fourth posted: "City fans need to stop protecting Foden."

Foden has scored seven times in the Premier League this season and registered just two assists, compared to 19 goals and eight assists last campaign.