Phil Foden’s involvement in upcoming England’s Nations League matches is in serious doubt, according to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. The 24-year-old midfielder, who has only played 45 minutes this season, has been struggling with illness, making his participation in the international fixtures increasingly unlikely.
Foden, a key player for both club and country, was included in the England squad by interim manager Lee Carsley for the forthcoming Nations League second-tier matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland. However, Guardiola’s recent comments have raised concerns about Foden’s fitness and availability, leaving his international future in the short term uncertain.
A Season Disrupted by Illness
Foden’s season has been far from ideal, with his involvement limited to a single appearance as a substitute in Manchester City’s match against Chelsea two weeks ago. The midfielder’s absence from the pitch has been attributed to an illness that has hampered his ability to train and play at his usual high level.
Guardiola, speaking to the media ahead of Manchester City’s next fixture, expressed doubts about Foden’s readiness to join up with the England squad. “I don’t think so right now,” Guardiola said when asked if Foden would be available for international duty. “I think he will not go, but I don’t know. He doesn’t feel well. But national teams, they decide.”
Guardiola’s remarks suggest that the decision regarding Foden’s participation will ultimately rest with the England medical team and coaching staff.
Impact on England’s Nations League Campaign
Phil Foden’s potential absence is a significant blow for England as they prepare for their Nations League matches. The midfielder has become an integral part of the national team setup, known for his creativity, technical ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals. His absence would deprive England of one of their most talented and versatile players, potentially affecting the team’s performance in these important fixtures.
Interim England manager Lee Carsley, who is overseeing the squad following the departure of Gareth Southgate, now faces a challenging decision. With Foden’s fitness in question, Carsley may need to consider alternative options in midfield. This could involve calling up a replacement or adjusting the team’s tactical approach to compensate for Foden’s absence.
The Nations League is an important competition for England, as it provides a pathway to qualification for major tournaments and offers a chance to test the team against strong European opposition. Losing a player of Foden’s caliber could hinder England’s chances of success in these crucial games.
Manchester City’s Concerns
From Manchester City’s perspective, the primary concern is Foden’s health and long-term fitness. The midfielder is a key figure in City’s squad, and the club will be keen to have him back at his best for the remainder of the season.
City’s medical team will likely work closely with their counterparts at England to monitor Foden’s condition and make a decision that prioritizes his well-being. Given the congested fixture schedule in both domestic and international football, managing player health has become increasingly important. Guardiola’s cautious approach suggests that City will not take any risks with Foden’s fitness, even if it means missing out on international duty.
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