Almost time… we’ll give our all to make you proud! 🏴🦁 pic.twitter.com/zRODJqZaJH
— Phil Foden (@PhilFoden) June 12, 2021
England’s first match in the Euro 2020 astounded fans and foes alike as the team soared ahead to an impressive 1-0 victory. With the goals scored by Raheem Sterling, it’s clear that England are pumped and ready to angle towards the trophy. One player, in particular, has been mentioned a lot – for both good and bad reasons. Phil Foden, who plays for Manchester City, is that player. But what are people saying about him and could he be the breakout star for the competition this summer?
Who is Phil Foden?
Phil Foden has represented England’s senior team (having previously shone for the youth teams and Manchester City) since August 2020, with his debut in the England v Iceland match that saw England win 1-0. Foden’s debut was mentioned for other reasons, however, as the player was withdrawn for breaking the stringent hotel protocol. Eager to court attention, Foden matched the announcement that he would form part of the 26-man England Euro squad by showcasing a new shocking blond hairdo. Having been compared to Gazza (Paul Gascoigne), Foden claimed he would try to channel the former player on the pitch.
Phil Foden’s got a new look—a tribute to Paul Gascoigne at Euro ’96 ✂️ pic.twitter.com/ShMnRmAcZk
— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 8, 2021
Foden and Football
When compiling lists of the Euro players to watch, Phil Foden often makes the lists, in company with players such as Germany’s Jamal Musiala and Portugal’s João Félix. Foden’s success in the Premier League is used as evidence as to why he makes the list and his track record of playing professionally in youth teams also stands him in good stead. Foden emblemises Southgate’s team as one strong in midfield. The outcome of England’s first match and Foden’s UEFA record mean that future opponents look set to shore up their defences for one of England’s newest talents.
Not everyone is in awe of Foden, though. Twitter was awash with armchair pundits who decried Southgate’s picks – particularly Foden, Raheem Sterling, and Harry Kane. Yet, it turned out that the England manager, who led the team to an unprecedented victory in their first match, knew best. Some suggested that Southgate played safe which led to a dull performance. Yet, the possibility of England winning the Euro 2020 is ever closer as a result of the ‘dull performance’.
Foden’s Future
The future for Foden indicates that he is a strong player and will continue to find his feet as the tournament progresses. Some argue that Foden should be given more opportunities as the game unfolds, especially in the final third. One criticism that is often levelled at Foden is that he can grow frustrated. Whether this will lead to a positive outcome as the adrenaline surges and sees some fancy footwork or sees him fumbling in frustration is yet to be seen.
Phil Foden is still only 21-years-old and to make such a mark in football already is an admirable feat. Whether or not he gets the necessary pitch time throughout the rest of England’s matches is yet to be seen. Regardless, he still remains one to watch and a potentially formidable force as the tournament progresses.