Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has backed Phil Foden to rediscover his best form after the England international ended his lengthy scoring drought.
According to AFP, Maresca expressed confidence in the midfielder following his impressive performances against Ipswich Town and AEK Athens.
Foden ended a 10-month goal drought during City’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich before scoring a hat-trick in Tuesday’s 5-1 Champions League win against AEK Athens.
The 26-year-old had struggled to maintain the performances that earned him the Premier League’s top individual awards during the 2023/24 season.
Maresca promises support for Foden’s resurgence
Maresca revealed that he had held several personal discussions with Foden since taking charge of Manchester City in June.
He explained that the conversations focused on restoring the midfielder’s confidence and reminding him of his importance to the team.
“So for me, I think it’s my duty to try to help Phil to be again one of the best players in England,” Maresca said.
The Italian manager believes improving individual performances will strengthen City’s overall competitiveness.
City have enjoyed an impressive start under Maresca, winning their opening seven Premier League matches despite significant changes to the squad.
However, the club continues to face uncertainty over Premier League financial regulation breaches and possible sanctions.
Maresca maintained that his players remained focused on their performances despite the off-field concerns.
Manchester City will face Aston Villa on Saturday, with Erling Haaland expected to return after missing the Champions League victory through injury.
Matheus Nunes, Mateo Kovacic and Nico O’Reilly remain injury doubts ahead of the encounter.
