Phil Foden is preparing to assume a leadership role at Manchester City as the club embarks on a new season under manager Enzo Maresca. The 26-year-old midfielder, who has been with City since the under-9 level, will enter his tenth season in the senior squad, making him the longest-serving player at the Etihad following recent departures.
After nearly a decade under Pep Guardiola, under whom he made his first-team debut in November 2017, Foden faces the challenge of adapting to Maresca’s approach. Maresca, who served as Guardiola’s assistant during Manchester City’s treble-winning 2022-23 season, has not yet specified a consistent position for Foden, who has been used in various roles over the years. However, the new manager has emphasized the importance of Foden setting an example for a relatively young squad, a responsibility the midfielder welcomes.
With former captain Bernardo Silva having transferred to Real Madrid and reports suggesting World Cup winner Rodri might follow, Foden could become a key figure in the team’s leadership structure. Alongside Ruben Dias and Erling Haaland, currently the more senior members, Foden sees himself stepping into a captaincy role. “I’ve been at the club for so long, I’m one of the longest here. This season I have to be one of the leaders, one of the captains,” he said, expressing eagerness to embrace the added responsibility.
As part of Manchester City’s Far East pre-season tour, Foden has been involved in integrating new signings, including Elliot Anderson, the club’s record signing and Foden’s England teammate. The midfielder anticipates a strong on-field partnership with Anderson, particularly appreciating Anderson’s playmaking style, which suits his own game.
The transition from Guardiola to Maresca has been described by Foden as smooth, with the team maintaining much of its tactical identity while adapting to some new defensive strategies and variations in build-up play. “It’s very similar to how we play under Pep but there’s obviously still things that are a little bit different,” Foden noted, highlighting the continuity and fresh elements introduced by Maresca.
Manchester City’s pre-season activities include matches in South Korea, where the squad arrived from Hong Kong. Foden, who was named the Premier League Player of the Season in 2023-24, recalled positive memories from the club’s previous tour in the region. Despite missing out on England’s World Cup squad under former manager Thomas Tuchel, Foden is focused on a strong campaign and helping City compete for titles.
With the team facing extreme heat warnings ahead of a match against the K-League All Stars, Foden acknowledged the challenging conditions but remains optimistic. “It’s going to be hot so we might have to control the ball a bit more and play slower — but I’m looking forward to it,” he said.
Foden’s commitment to leadership and his readiness to adapt as Manchester City enters a new era highlight his growing importance in a squad undergoing significant change.