Reports that Phil Foden is looking for clarity over his role under Enzo Maresca have sparked debate ahead of City’s new season.
There is no indication that Foden’s future at the Etihad is uncertain. The England international remains one of City’s most important players and is expected to be central to Maresca’s plans.
The interesting question is where the new manager sees him fitting into his team.
Foden became one of City’s defining players under Pep, but Maresca’s arrival brings a fresh opportunity to assess how the squad is used.
Competition for attacking positions remains fierce. Jeremy Doku, Rayan Cherki and Omar Marmoush are among those jostling for said attacking positions, while Foden’s ability to operate in several spots gives Maresca options.
That flexibility has been one of Foden’s biggest strengths throughout his City career. He has played on the left, through the middle and in deeper midfield roles, depending on what the team has required.
Where will Phil fit?
Finding the right position for him could be one of Maresca’s early decisions.
Foden’s quality is not in question. He remains one of the club’s outstanding academy graduates. An A-star pupil. But the focus now is on how Maresca plans to get the best from him.
This pre-season should offer the first clues, with Foden’s position and responsibilities likely to be closely watched as City begin a new era. Some of this may come out of the discussions Phil Foden is said to be having with Maresca and co.
For City, while it may sound obvious, keeping their best players performing at their highest level will be one of the new manager’s biggest priorities. Pep made it look easy, but as Maresca will discover, it’s an art all of its own.
