After Phil Foden scored twice to defeat Manchester United, Pep Guardiola declared him the best Premier League player.
After an incredible first goal from Marcus Rashford, Foden scored twice in the second half to even the score, and Erling Haaland scored the third to give United a 3-1 victory.
After his youthful striker scored two incredible goals to reverse the game’s momentum, Guardiola was effusive in his admiration.
For all the things he does, he is currently the Premier League’s top player, he told the BBC. Absolutely unbelievable.
The number of games he’s playing is the problem.
He has always had skill, but now he’s more mature and has a better grasp of the game, particularly defensively. He can play anywhere: in the middle, on the right, creating chances to cut inside, or even out on the left, where he can score goals.
While Guardiola was effusive in praising Foden’s work ethic, he did concede that Foden’s offensive contributions are his strongest suit.
He made it clear that nothing else brings him greater joy than when he scored two goals.
The player who fails to achieve that will not remain on the team; we do not bargain on that.
He is completely devoted to football.
“He is a joy and his work ethic is unbelievable.”
With eleven goals and seven assists, Foden has had a spectacular season.
According to the academy product, “everything” is riding on Manchester Derby’s success.
Achieving appearances in major games is my goal, he declared.
That is my goal, and I feel like I’ve shown that this season. I simply must persevere in my efforts.
A derby at the Etihad? I know what the fans are thinking.
“It means everything for me, to score as well is even better but it was about the win today.”