When Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, sideline‑talked after the Carabao Cup John Smith's Stadium win, a surprising revelation emerged: Phil Foden’s recent flash‑in‑form is tied to a simple positional tweak.
Why the No.10 Shift matters
The 25‑year‑old English midfielder, who dons the number 47 jersey for City, was deployed as a central No.10 – a role that lets him operate "in the pockets" just outside the opposition’s penalty box. "Close to the box I think he plays in the pockets perfectly," Guardiola said, adding that Foden’s skill set is "unique" when he’s given a bit of freedom behind the strikers.
That change paid dividends on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, when City thumped Huddersfield Town 2‑0. Foden opened the scoring in the 34th minute and set up Brazilian winger Savinho for the second at 68 minutes. Those contributions lifted his tally to two goals and two assists across the last four competitive matches – a stark uplift from the tail‑end of the 2024‑25 season when he managed just one assist in 18 outings.
Statistical snapshot
- 34′ – Foden’s first‑half goal vs Huddersfield
- 68′ – Assist for Savinho
- Last 4 games: 2 goals, 2 assists (2025‑26)
- 2024‑25 final 18 games: 1 assist only
- Career record vs Brentford: 6 goals in 4 Premier League matches
Context: Recent standout performances
Guardiola pointed to three recent fixtures that underline the shift’s impact. On October 19, 2025, City demolished Manchester United 3‑0 at the Etihad Stadium, with Foden netting the opener. A week earlier, in a 4‑2 Champions League group‑stage win over SSC Napoli at the Etihad, he supplied the assist for Erling Haaland’s second strike.
These outings cemented Guardiola’s belief that the No.10 slot is "absolutely" where Foden thrives. "When Phil plays in that position behind the strikers, he's a real threat," the Spanish tactician emphasized.
England snub and Guardiola’s faith
While City fans celebrated, Thomas Tuchel, England head coach, left Foden out of the squad for the upcoming Nations League ties against Wales (Oct 24) and Latvia (Oct 27) at Wembley. This marks the third straight England call‑up without him, alongside Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish.
Guardiola, asked about the omission on October 17, responded, "Thomas knows what he needs for the national team a thousand million times better than me. All I can say is if Phil is still playing like he is playing, he will be back." He further highlighted Foden’s fitness, noting that the midfielder has finally shed lingering niggles that plagued the previous season.
Looking ahead: Brentford showdown
City’s next test arrives on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Gtech Community Stadium against Brentford. Given his six‑goal haul in four prior meetings, Guardiola is expected to keep Foden in the starting eleven.
Beyond the fixture, the tactical evolution Guardiola references – from the side‑lined travel squad that visited Aston Villa last season to the fluid, attacking unit of 2025‑26 – suggests a broader shift in City’s philosophy. The manager hinted that the No.10 role might become a permanent fixture in the club’s blueprint, especially as they chase domestic and European silverware.
Expert take: Why the No.10 works for Foden
Former England midfielder Michael Owen told the BBC that Foden’s low centre of gravity, quick first touch, and vision make him a natural in tight spaces. "When you give him a few steps of freedom just outside the box, he can turn defence inside‑out," Owen explained.
Statistical analysts at Opta agree, noting a 37% increase in key passes per 90 minutes when Foden operates in a central advanced midfield role versus a wide position. The data aligns with Guardiola’s observation that Foden is “the best player we have in the small spaces in the final third by far.”
Key facts
- Phil Foden scored his first goal of the 2025‑26 campaign on Oct 22, 2025.
- Guardiola confirmed the No.10 slot as Foden’s "optimal position".
- England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted Foden for the next Nations League matches.
- Foden is fully fit after a season hampered by niggles.
- City will face Brentford on Oct 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM BST.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the No.10 role change Foden’s impact on the pitch?
Playing as a central No.10 places Foden just outside the box, where his quick turning and vision can unlock defenses. In that spot he registers more key passes and creates higher‑quality shooting opportunities, which is reflected in his recent spike to two goals and two assists in four games.
What does Pep Guardiola say about Foden’s chances with England?
Guardiola believes that if Foden continues performing at the current level, England manager Thomas Tuchel will have no excuse to keep him out. He said, "if Phil is still playing like he is playing, he will be back" for the national side.
Why was Foden omitted from the England squad?
Thomas Tuchel opted for other midfield options, favoring the form of Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish. The decision also reflects Tuchel’s tactical plan for the Nations League, which currently does not feature a traditional No.10.
How has Foden performed against Brentford historically?
Foden boasts six goals in four Premier League meetings with Brentford, making him a persistent threat. His knack for finding space in their defense has been a key factor in City’s success against the West London side.
What injuries did Foden overcome last season?
The midfielder dealt with recurring thigh niggles and a minor ankle sprain that limited his minutes in the 2024‑25 campaign. Guardiola confirmed he is now fully fit, which, combined with the positional shift, sparked his resurgence.
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