“I Feel Frustrated” – Phil Foden Aims Dig at Gareth Southgate Over ‘Difficult’ England Position at Euro 2024 as Man City Star Admits Being in ‘Low Mental State’ at Start of the Season

In a candid and revealing press conference, Manchester City’s Phil Foden opened up about his struggles with his current role in the England national team under manager Gareth Southgate. Despite being one of the most talented and exciting young players in European football, Foden has found his position within Southgate’s setup to be “difficult,” as England prepares for Euro 2024. The young winger, known for his creativity and flair on the pitch, did not hold back in sharing his frustration about his lack of opportunities with the national team.

“I feel frustrated,” Foden admitted, giving voice to the growing sense of dissatisfaction he has been feeling. The 24-year-old explained that he has been working tirelessly to secure a regular spot in Southgate’s starting XI, but he has often found himself on the sidelines, watching as others were chosen ahead of him. His frustration stems from the competition for places, as well as Southgate’s tactical decisions, which have sometimes seen him deployed in unfamiliar positions.

For Foden, the problem isn’t just about missing out on starting spots, but rather the inconsistency of his role in the national team. Southgate has frequently asked him to play in different positions—wide on the left, as an attacking midfielder, or even as a central playmaker. While Foden’s versatility is undoubtedly one of his strengths, the constant changes have disrupted his rhythm and flow, making it harder for him to showcase his best form when playing for England.

The inconsistency in his role with the national team has been especially frustrating for a player who has blossomed into one of Manchester City’s most influential players. At club level, Foden has been a key figure in City’s attack, playing a vital role in their success in both domestic and European competitions. Yet, when it comes to England, the same level of trust hasn’t always been afforded to him. This disconnect between his club and international performances has led to a growing sense of disappointment, both in his ability to impact England’s games and in the opportunities that have been given to him under Southgate.

“I have been working hard to make my mark, but sometimes it feels like I’m not being given the chance to do that,” Foden explained. “The competition for places is intense, and sometimes it feels as if my contributions at Manchester City aren’t being fully recognized when it comes to international duty.” The uncertainty of his role has taken a toll, and as Euro 2024 looms, Foden is eager for clarity about where he fits into Southgate’s plans.

Beyond his frustrations with his international role, Foden also spoke openly about his struggles with his mental health at the start of the 2024 season. The Manchester City star admitted that he began the campaign in a “low mental state,” a candid acknowledgment that highlights the pressure and expectations that weigh heavily on young players. While footballers are often expected to maintain peak physical form, Foden’s remarks shed light on the psychological challenges that come with balancing the demands of club and international football.

“At the beginning of the season, I didn’t feel great mentally. It wasn’t just about football—it was everything that comes with being a high-level player, the pressure to perform both at City and with England,” Foden confessed. The emotional toll, coupled with the constant pressure to perform at the highest level, left the talented winger feeling less than his best at the outset of the season. “I was struggling to find that balance,” he added, referencing the weight of expectations on both sides.

Foden’s mental state at the start of the season was compounded by his concerns over his role with England. The pressure of not knowing whether he would be a regular starter for the national team added to his sense of frustration. However, in the face of these challenges, Foden emphasized that he has been working closely with Manchester City’s support staff to improve his mental health and well-being.

“It’s been tough, but I’m starting to find my way back,” Foden said, a hopeful tone in his voice as he discussed the progress he has made in recent weeks. The support he has received from City’s management and staff has played a crucial part in helping him regain his confidence and focus. “I know what I’m capable of, and I’m working hard to get back to my best,” Foden assured his supporters.

While Foden’s frustrations are clear, he also made it evident that his commitment to both Manchester City and the England national team remains unwavering. His ambition to succeed at both levels is a testament to his desire to be among the best, and he is determined to prove his worth to Southgate as Euro 2024 approaches. “I just want clarity in my role,” Foden said with conviction. “I know I can contribute to the team, and I want the chance to show what I can do.”

With the European Championship on the horizon, Foden’s comments have sparked debate about Southgate’s tactical approach and how he will integrate players like Foden into his squad. Southgate will need to make tough decisions on his attacking setup, especially with a wealth of talent at his disposal. Key figures like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Jack Grealish will all be vying for starting spots, and Foden’s challenge will be to secure his place amidst this competitive field.

As Foden’s mental state improves, so too does his form on the pitch. He has been in fine form for Manchester City recently, showing glimpses of the player that has made him one of the most exciting talents in English football. If his performances for City continue at this level, it could provide the perfect platform for Foden to earn a more prominent role for England at Euro 2024.

With Southgate facing the difficult task of balancing his squad for the upcoming tournament, Foden’s comments add an intriguing layer to the ongoing conversation about England’s Euro 2024 preparations. If Foden can regain his mental strength and carve out a consistent role within the national team setup, he could prove to be one of England’s most valuable assets at the tournament.

In conclusion, Foden’s frustrations are understandable, but his determination to prove himself for both Manchester City and England highlights the resilience that has made him one of the most promising young players of his generation. As Euro 2024 draws nearer, all eyes will be on Southgate’s decision-making process and whether Foden can finally secure the role that he feels he deserves on the international stage.

Foden’s story is one of growth and perseverance. With clarity on his role and continued support for his mental well-being, he could be the player to watch in the coming months. Whether he is deployed centrally or on the wing, Foden is eager to make his mark on the international stage and prove that he can shine in a tournament as prestigious as Euro 2024.