Guardiola dismisses Foden form concerns as Man City prepare for Liverpool
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola insists he has zero concerns regarding Phil Foden’s recent dip in form ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium.
The 25-year-old playmaker struggled to make an impact during recent international friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
Those underwhelming performances on England duty have sparked debate over his place in the upcoming World Cup squad.
The academy graduate has also found his domestic opportunities limited lately, starting just one of his club’s last eight fixtures.
Backing a proven winner
Despite the current challenging spell, his club manager remains completely resolute in his support.
The Catalan tactician highlighted the incredible domestic success his forward has already achieved at such a young age.
“Zero. He is 25. Six Premier Leagues. His contribution is incredible.”
“What happened is a normal process in a long, long career. A normal situation. He will make a click and it will turn.”
Addressing the Spanish rumour mill
The pre-match briefing also turned to the future of midfield anchor Rodri.
Recent comments from the influential holding player had fuelled speculation regarding a potential blockbuster switch to Real Madrid.
However, the City boss offered a characteristically blunt response to the transfer gossip.
“No opinion. I know the intentions of the club. I know, I think, the intentions of him.”
Bidding farewell to an icon
Attention then shifted to the impending visit of the Merseyside club to Manchester.
This weekend’s cup tie will mark Mohamed Salah’s final appearance at the Etihad Stadium in a visiting shirt.
Guardiola was effusive in his praise for the Egyptian forward who has terrorised opposition defences for years.
“Absolutely one of the greatest. The numbers, the consistency. What a player.”
“Incredible human being, goals, assists, absolute legend, of course for Liverpool, but the Premier League. I think it is a good moment to say goodbye to him.”
Frustrations over fixture congestion
The defending champions face an unusual break in their schedule following their recent Champions League elimination by Real Madrid.
While acknowledging the benefits of a rest, the manager criticised the intense physical demands placed on modern squads.
He admitted a preference for the chaotic rhythm of European football over empty midweeks.
“I would love to have the next week, in the midweek, to be in the Champions League and have a busy, busy schedule but unfortunately we are out.”
The focus now shifts entirely to domestic survival as they prepare for a crucial upcoming league fixture against Chelsea.
