Manchester City arguably had their worst season in the last eight years.
After missing out on all chances of bringing home some silverware, Pep Guardiola's squad settled for a third-place finish in the Premier League and a Champions League qualification for the next campaign.
Amid their hardships in the campaign, one of Man City's key players, Phil Foden, witnessed his own decline in form, and now, he has revealed his struggles extended beyond the pitch as well.
The 2023-24 season was a success for Foden. Along with winning the Premier League title, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup with Man City, the Englishman also received four personal honors, including the PFA Players' Player of the Year and the FWA Footballer of the Year.
However, things took a turn for the worse for Foden in the next season, with illness, injuries, and personal struggles. Back in April during a Manchester derby, the 25-year-old was also on the receiving end of offensive chants about his mother by a section of United supporters.
Foden opened up about the issues he encountered in the campaign, mentioning that 'sometimes there are things in life bigger than football.'
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What did Phil Foden say?
Foden has missed six matches for Man City due to illness and injuries. The club academy graduate spoke about (comments via Forbes) how even though he could power through his physical struggles, he 'had a lot of things going on off the pitch mentally.'
“I managed to play on with my ligaments done [against Manchester United], that’s the kind of person I am. I try play on with anything. I remember how much pain I felt when the adrenaline died. I missed the next game or two, came back to training quite early," he said.
"It’s been a frustrating season for me. I’ve had a lot of things going on off the pitch mentally. It’s one of them, sometimes there's things in life bigger than football. This season, I’ve struggled a little," Foded added.
Foden then expressed his hopes of returning stronger in the upcoming campaign, and said,
"Hopefully, come next year, I can get my head mentally right, get back where I left the season before because I know what I’m capable of and the quality I have. I know if everything was okay, I’d definitely be better on the field."
"Sometimes things happen; you have to deal with it and move on. Unfortunately, I’ve had a difficult season. Now it’s just about improving, getting back to my best. I know my standards and what I can reach. I’m looking forward to getting back. The club have been so supportive. I can’t thank them enough..." concluded Foden.
Foden started his senior career at Etihad in 2016 and has since made 315 appearances for Man City while registering 97 goals and 60 assists. It remains to be seen if the winger is able to return to his usual stride in the next season.
Man City news and related links
- Pep Guardiola makes no promises on Man City's Premier League chances for next season
- Guardiola confirms 'new faces will come' to Man City this summer
- Pep Guardiola fires future question at struggling Man City star