Phil Foden believes that he has rediscovered his “hunger” during a break of football, while he wants to breathe new life into his career in Manchester City and proves his critics.
FODEN did not build on his stunning 2023-24 season last year and only registered 15 targets (10 goals, five assists) in 45 performances in all competitions.
The 25-year-old chose to skip international duty for England for their world cup qualification against Andorra and friendly defeat against Senegal earlier this month.
But Foden returned to the city team with a bang on Wednesday and noted a goal and an assist in their 2-0 win over Wydad AC in their first game of the Club World Cup.
Indeed, he became the first Englishman who scored in several editions of the competition, including all formats, which were also at the tournament in 2023.
Foden ended the competition with team -high Totals for Schoten (four), while only Savinho (three) created more opportunities than the England International (two, level with Omar Marmoush).
“The hunger in me is back and I want to prove that people are wrong,” said Foden.
“It was a difficult season. I'm not going to lie. It wasn't the best. I got a little free time, rested. Yes, new start, new me. I just look forward to the season.
“I am happy to go back into the goals, clearly also create opportunities.”
Foden revealed that, despite the worn feeling, there was never a question mark about whether he would be part of the City team for the club of Club.
The Pep Guardiola team stands for Al Ain in their next group game before taking Juventus on June 26, with Foden who wants to build his impressive show against Wydad.
“A new season, Fresh Me,” he said Channel 5 after that. “I am now looking forward to the season.
“[The tournament is] Very important, not only for me, but for all players. It is important to get sharpness in this large competition now.
“Playing for a club like City, there are expectations to perform in every game. I have been used to that pressure.
“Last season was a bit rough for all of us, but it is about going again this season.”
Foden, voted the best player of the Premier League in the 2023-24 season, is about to enter the last two years of his contract in the Etihad Stadium.
His current deal is rising in 2027, but he revealed that there have been no conversations about an extension.
“I have heard nothing. We will see what is happening,” he said.