Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Phil Foden is “back to his best” after the forward’s brace inspired a 4–1 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday night.
Foden struck twice with trademark precision as City eased past the Bundesliga side, marking his first-ever double in a Champions League game.
“It’s not just Erling scoring goals — Phil is back!” Guardiola told reporters. “We’ve seen these kinds of goals from him for years, and we missed them a lot last season. As long as Phil is happy and enjoying himself, he’s unstoppable. He’s a special player, and we need his goals.”
The performance signalled a return to form for both Foden and City after what Guardiola described as a “tough” campaign last season.
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Speaking to TNT Sports, Foden said he was “loving” his football again. “I need to play with a smile on my face, which I’m doing,” he said. “There’s a new togetherness in the team. Dortmund are a great side, but we stuck to the plan and broke them down.”
Foden’s display comes just days before England boss Thomas Tuchel announces his latest squad. The 24-year-old has not featured for the national team since March but has been one of City’s creative sparks this season, ranking among the Premier League’s top chance creators.
Guardiola said Tuchel “knows exactly what the national team needs” and backed Foden to force his way back. “Everyone knows Phil’s quality,” he added. “England are lucky to have so many good players in his position, but he just needs to keep pushing himself.”
Foden will look to continue his resurgence when City host Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.