With tonight’s win over Brentford, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has narrowed the gap at the summit of the Premier League table to just two points.
Throughout 2024, City has maintained their stellar form, clinching victory in five consecutive matches across all competitions.
Phil Foden stole the spotlight this evening at the Gtech Community Stadium with a stunning hat-trick.
Neal Maupay’s goal initially gave Brentford the upper hand in the match following some shaky defending from City. The striker capitalized on Mark Flekken’s goal kick, swiftly controlling the ball and slotting it past Ederson.
However, Foden restored parity for City shortly before halftime before raising his performance in the second half.
After equalizing, Foden quickly added another goal early in the second half, this time with a well-placed header from Kevin De Bruyne’s impeccable cross.
Completing his hat-trick, Foden clinically finished into the bottom corner following a neat lay-off from Erling Haaland, showcasing his prowess at just 24 years old.
Deployed in a central role, Foden has continued to impress this season, tallying 14 goals across all competitions.
Commentator Alan Smith of Sky awarded him Man of the Match, praising his exceptional performance: “While many City players were outstanding, scoring a hat-trick certainly warrants the accolade.” Phil Foden is enjoying a remarkable season alongside an exceptional team.
Once again, Foden, whom Pep Guardiola recently lauded as evolving into a match-winner for City, stood out as their top performer.
Despite Kevin De Bruyne and Julen Alvarez occupying similar roles, Foden excelled in the midfield, operating effectively between the lines.
He is now blossoming into the impactful player many envisioned him to be.
It is encouraging to witness Foden gaining more attacking prowess; he needs just one more goal this season to equal his career-high tally and two more to match his 16 goals from the 2020–21 campaign.
