Maresca backs Foden's revival again at Manchester City

In the early afternoon at the Etihad, Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca praised England midfielder Phil Foden, saying he is ready to reclaim his status as one of the nation’s finest. reported the comments on the 22nd, after Foden’s hat‑trick against AEK Athens and his first goal of the season versus Ipswich.

Foden, who notched 19 goals and eight assists in the 2023‑24 Premier League and earned the PFA Player of the Year award, has struggled for consistency and missed the England squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Maresca recalled long talks with the 22‑year‑old, insisting his role is to nurture Foden’s growth, and stressed that supporting the midfielder is a season‑long project, not a single‑match fix.

After scoring his first goal on the 17th against Ipswich, Foden completed a hat‑trick three days later at AEK Athens, taking his tally to four in two matches, and said he feels the team is moving in the right direction.