Micah Richards and Shay Given have debated that Phil Foden should be utilized more often in the central role after his impressive display during Manchester City’s 2-1 victory against Luton last Sunday.
Following Erling Haaland’s injury, Julian Alvarez stepped in as the team’s number nine, and Foden was assigned the attacking midfielder role—a position he occupied throughout his academy career.
Despite Foden expressing his preference for playing as a No. 10, Pep Guardiola has frequently deployed him on the wing, especially with Kevin De Bruyne injured this season, granting Foden the chance to cut inside from the flank.
In the game against Luton, Foden was given the freedom to start in the center but was noticed adapting alongside Alvarez when Haaland played as the primary striker. According to Given, Foden appears more at ease playing behind the striker, displaying his effectiveness in that position.
Given, commenting on Match Of The Day 2, remarked, “We saw Phil Foden stepping into that role, linking up with Alvarez.” He believes it’s Foden’s preferred position; he prefers to witness Phil in the middle rather than out wide.
“He seems comfortable there,” Given added. “A truly skilled player remains composed in possession, consistently selects the right pass, and seems to have time.
Richards supported this view, highlighting Foden’s strengths as an attacking central midfielder, noting, “I believe he’s one of the best in the league at making that half turn and swiftly playing the ball forward.”
“Sometimes I see Phil Foden isolated on the wing. In terms of passing, quality, and suitability for that role, I’d argue Foden is suited for the No. 10 position.”
This season, Foden has started three games in the central position, notably scoring in the 3-1 Champions League away defeat to RB Leipzig.
