Phil Foden has seen a reduction in playing time at Manchester City during the 2025-26 campaign. The playmaker started only four of the previous 12 matches for the club, according to the Premier League. This follows a period where the 25-year-old was often an automatic selection for manager Pep Guardiola.
Foden missed a portion of the early season due to illness and has struggled to regain a consistent place in the starting eleven since returning. Per Sky Sports, the midfielder's output has declined compared to his 19 league goals during the 2023-24 season. He has faced increased competition for places from other creative players in the squad.
Manchester City currently sit in a competitive position in the Premier League table. Guardiola has preferred to rotate his midfield options during recent fixtures in both domestic and European competitions. Foden remains under contract at the Etihad Stadium, but his recent lack of starts has led to external discussion regarding his current role, as reported by The Guardian.
