‘I feel frustrated’ – Phil Foden aims dig at Gareth Southgate over ‘difficult’ England position at Euro 2024 as Man City star admits being in ‘low mental state’ at start of the season
“I Feel Frustrated” – Phil Foden Aims Dig at Gareth Southgate Over ‘Difficult’ England Position at Euro 2024 as Man City Star Admits Being in ‘Low Mental State’ at Start of the Season
In a revealing press conference, Manchester City star Phil Foden opened up about his frustrations with his current role in the England national team setup under manager Gareth Southgate. The young winger, known for his flair and creativity on the pitch, admitted that he has found his position within the national team to be “difficult” as England prepares for Euro 2024.
Foden’s candid comments come at a time when the talented forward has been struggling to secure a consistent place in Southgate’s starting XI. Despite his impressive performances at club level, where he plays a pivotal role in Manchester City’s attacking lineup, Foden has often found himself sidelined during international fixtures.
“Difficult Position” in the England Setup
Foden expressed that the competition for spots in Southgate’s squad, coupled with the tactical decisions made by the manager, has placed him in a “difficult” position heading into Euro 2024. “I feel frustrated,” Foden admitted, acknowledging that he has been working hard to make his mark but hasn’t always had the opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.
England’s tactical approach under Southgate, particularly in high-stakes tournaments, has often seen Foden utilized in a variety of roles, sometimes limiting his ability to truly shine. While he has demonstrated versatility, playing both wide and centrally, the constant change of positions seems to have hindered his rhythm and development with the national team.
Despite his growing reputation with Manchester City, where he is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in European football, Foden has found it difficult to consistently assert himself in the same way for England. The uncertainty around his role has added to the frustration, especially with Euro 2024 on the horizon.
Admitting a “Low Mental State” at the Start of the Season
Alongside his concerns about his international position, Foden also opened up about his personal mental state at the start of the 2024 season. The 24-year-old admitted to feeling in a “low mental state” during the early stages of the campaign. It wasn’t just a matter of footballing frustrations but also an emotional and psychological struggle that affected his performance and well-being.
Foden revealed that the challenges of balancing club and international duties, coupled with his personal aspirations to improve, weighed heavily on him during the early months of the season. The pressure to perform at the highest level both for Manchester City and England took its toll on the talented winger, who is known for his ambition and drive.
However, Foden expressed that he has been working hard with Manchester City’s support staff to improve his mental well-being and regain his confidence. “It’s been a tough start, but I’m slowly finding my way back,” he said, acknowledging the importance of mental health in maintaining peak performance on the field.
A Call for Clarity in His Role
While Foden’s frustrations are clear, he did emphasize his commitment to both Manchester City and the England team. He’s determined to be part of Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024 and hopes that his recent form with City will help him secure a more prominent place in the national team’s plans. “I just want clarity in my role,” Foden said. “I know what I can offer, and I believe I can help the team succeed, but I need the chance to show it.”
The young winger is known for his dazzling dribbling skills, sharp vision, and ability to score crucial goals, making him an asset for any team. As Euro 2024 approaches, the pressure will be on Southgate to decide how best to utilize Foden’s talents, especially given the wide array of attacking options at his disposal.
Looking Ahead to Euro 2024
Foden’s comments have stirred conversation about Southgate’s tactical choices and how the England manager will balance his squad for the upcoming tournament. With key players like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Jack Grealish also competing for starting positions, the battle for spots in Southgate’s team will be intense.
As Foden navigates through his own personal and professional challenges, one thing is certain: he remains one of the brightest prospects in English football. Whether he can secure a more prominent role for both club and country will be a storyline to follow as Euro 2024 draws nearer.
In conclusion, while Foden’s frustrations are understandable, his determination to prove himself for both Manchester City and England highlights the resolve that has made him one of the most exciting players of his generation. With clarity on his role and improved mental well-being, Foden will be a player to watch in the coming months as he looks to shine on the international stage.