Phil Foden has expressed frustration regarding his recent performances for England, attributing his difficulties to the challenge of adapting to a new position while wearing the national team shirt.
Southgate’s decision to move Foden from his usual role was part of an effort to effectively utilize the team’s attacking talent during the tournament.
Despite England reaching the final in Germany, the team’s tactics drew criticism. Foden, who had been named the Premier League Player of the Season, found it challenging to replicate the form that earned him that accolade.
Although he scored 27 goals across all competitions in the 2023-24 season, he was unable to find the net during what turned out to be Southgate’s last tournament in charge.
Struggles With Positional Change
Reflecting on the experience, Foden acknowledged that both he and the team fell short of their potential. “I feel frustrated I didn’t get out what I wanted to get out of it,” he shared with the media.
He noted that the left-wing position he was assigned made it difficult to impact the game effectively. “Coming off last season being the best player in the Premier League and playing center midfield, I do feel the position was quite difficult to get used to,” he added.
Foden, capable of playing multiple positions, tried to adapt as best as he could. However, he believes that England never really found their rhythm or performed at their best during the tournament.
The 24-year-old has faced challenges replicating his previous season’s success, experiencing a lackluster campaign both personally and with Manchester City.
Nevertheless, his recent tally of six goals in six games indicates a possible resurgence for the versatile forward, who has faced time on the sidelines.
Mental and Physical Fatigue
The academy graduate admitted that he has been grappling with both mental and physical fatigue following the disappointment of the Euros, which came at the end of a grueling season. “I’m normally itching to get back, but when I came back my body and my mental state were low,” Foden explained.
He emphasized the mental aspect of football, stating, “For me, football is played with the brain, and when the brain is mentally fatigued, you’re not going to see a player for who he is.”
Foden took time to rest and allow his body to recover, taking a gradual approach to the start of the season. “I didn’t play much, and I was just resting and trying to get back to myself,” he noted.
He also mentioned that his body felt different from what he was used to, leading to a slow start to the season. “I missed periods at the start of the season, so I think that’s why it’s taken me so long to get going. I’ve slowly been getting back to myself,” he concluded.
