Foden determined to repay City’s faith under Maresca
· Yahoo Sports
Phil Foden says he is determined to repay Manchester City’s faith after signing a new long-term contract, with the England international embracing a “fresh start” under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Speaking in Hong Kong ahead of City’s pre-season clash with Inter Milan, Foden admitted the club’s decision to hand him a new deal has lifted a weight from his shoulders after two difficult campaigns.
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The 26-year-old committed his future to the Premier League club until 2030 last month, despite falling short of the standards he set during his outstanding 2023-24 season. Foden scored 10 goals last term but endured a 31-match goal drought for club and country before the end of the campaign.
“It has made me feel relaxed and I can just concentrate on being the best version of me and give back to the football club for them trusting in me,” Foden said.
Foden eager to repay City’s faith under Maresca
“It is nice to see the support from the club and obviously it means a lot. “It’s about time I try and repay them and give back to the club.”
Foden enjoyed the most prolific campaign of his career in 2023-24, scoring 19 goals as City won the Premier League title and collecting both the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and Premier League Player of the Season awards.
Now, the academy graduate believes Maresca’s arrival offers the ideal opportunity to reset. The pair previously worked together when the Italian was part of Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff during City’s treble-winning campaign.
“Very good – a fresh start, a new manager and up to now, really enjoying it,” Foden said. “It is very strange but I know Enzo from before, so that also helps. I know him quite well and what he is about.
“That has definitely helped, to have that relationship with him.”
Maresca has already spoken of his desire to help Foden rediscover his best form, and the midfielder will hope to reward both his manager’s faith and the club’s backing as Manchester City begin a new era under the Italian.