Manchester City attacking midfielder Phil Foden delivered a masterclass performance on Tuesday, scoring three goals and setting up another to secure a resounding 5-1 Champions League victory over AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium. The dominant display provided a timely reminder of his world-class abilities following a challenging couple of seasons that tested his consistency and confidence.
The 26-year-old playmaker has endured a difficult patch since claiming the PFA player of the year award during City's 2023-24 Premier League title-winning campaign. Following two consecutive seasons where he failed to meet expectations, Foden was omitted from the England squad for last summer's World Cup. He also faced a setback in September when he received a red card during a tense derby against Manchester United.
However, recent matches suggest a significant turning point for the homegrown star under new manager Enzo Maresca. After ending a ten-month Premier League goal drought against Ipswich Town over the weekend, Foden carried that momentum onto the European stage. His latest milestone places him in elite company as only the third Englishman to register a hat-trick and an assist in a single Champions League fixture, following Wayne Rooney and Raheem Sterling.
With star striker Erling Haaland rested due to a minor foot injury sustained in the previous match, manager Maresca opted to utilize Foden in a central false nine role. After initially starting on the right flank, Foden shifted centrally and immediately impacted the match. His goals showcased his technical range, featuring two close-range finishes and a breathtaking first-time strike from the edge of the area into the top corner.
Speaking after the final whistle, Foden expressed satisfaction with his performance and his gradual return to top form. He acknowledged that while there is still ground to cover, his direction is positive and his confidence is growing. Maresca praised the midfielder's output, reiterating his belief that Foden ranks among the finest players in England.
Pundits and former players have also taken notice of the tactical flexibility Foden provides. Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott noted that the midfielder's exquisite finishing could make him the ideal internal solution whenever Haaland is unavailable to lead the attack.
Despite signing a new four-year contract in July, Foden's recent journey has required resilience, particularly after enduring a lengthy scoreless streak toward the end of the previous campaign. With a stellar European performance now under his belt and the backing of his manager, Foden appears ready to reassert himself as a pivotal figure for Manchester City as the season progresses.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.
