“It’s my duty”: Maresca backs Foden to reclaim his place among England’s top players

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has said it is his duty to help Phil Foden become one of the best players in England once again.

Foden hit a hat-trick during Manchester City's 5-1 win over AEK Athens in the Champions League in midweek, after scoring against Ipswich Town in the Premier League at the weekend.

The 26-year-old had gone 10 months without a goal for the Cityzens, having struggled for his best form across the last two seasons.

Foden was a notable omission from England's 2026 World Cup squad in the summer, concluding a difficult period.

The midfielder was named PFA Player of the Year as City won the Premier League in 2023/24, and Maresca has said he wants to get Foden back firing at that level.

He said he knows how good Foden can be, and said it's his duty to ensure he returns to his best.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Aston Villa this weekend, Maresca said: "I know Phil from years ago, so I know how good he is

"For different reasons, over the last few years he was not good enough. But, again, when you have more players like Phil available, you are a better team.

"At the end of the day it's a matter of improving players. If you improve players, you improve the team. For me, I think it's my duty to help Phil to again be one of the best players in England."