'I want to prove people wrong' - Phil Foden claims his 'hunger is back' after disappointing Man City season

The England international had an underwhelming 2024-25 campaign as he ended with a modest tally of ten goals and six assists in 45 appearances. This was a massive drop in performance for the reigning PFA Players' Player of the Year, who was also struggling with a persistent ankle issue.

However, Foden has upped his ante in City's training base in Florida as he is determined to revive his old self. That renewed energy was evident when he took just 111 seconds to score against Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca and followed it up with an assist for Jeremy Doku from the corner.

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The rigours of modern football had exhausted Foden, and he requested Thomas Tuchel to leave him out of England's squad against Andorra and Senegal. His wish was granted, and the forward looks rejuvenated after the extended break.

"New start, new me," Foden said, after inspiring City to a win over Casablanca. "The time off was very beneficial. Not a lot of footballers these days get much time off, so it’s very important. I can’t remember the last time I had a break like that to be honest. I struggled to switch off completely but I just rested with the family, did my own thing and I needed it. Now the hunger inside me is back and I want to prove people wrong."

Foden revealed that he had been working on his shortcomings on the training ground to turn around his fortunes.

"I’ve been working hard on things that I can improve and I tried to take them into the game today," Foden said. "I’m happy to get back among the goals and create chances as well."

With a clean bill of health and renewed motivation, City fans could expect Foden to fire on all cylinders in the States as Pep Guardiola's men strive to lift the Club World Cup. He is expected to feature again when City face Al-Ain on Sunday in their second group-stage clash.