Manchester City’s season has been filled with ups and downs, both on and off the pitch. While the team has missed out on defending titles like the Premier League, the Champions League, and the FA Cup, one of its key players, Phil Foden, has come forward about his personal struggles.

The 24-year-old England midfielder shocked many by asking Thomas Tuchel not to call him up for the national team’s upcoming matches, choosing instead to focus on his mental well-being and physical recovery. “It’s been a frustrating season for me,” Foden admitted. “I’ve had to deal with a lot off the pitch. Sometimes, there are things in life more important than football.”

Despite being named both PFA Player of the Year and Football Writers’ Player of the Year last season, Foden has scored only 10 goals in 44 appearances this term. His performance drop has been worsened by an ankle injury suffered during the Manchester derby in early April, which he has continued to play through.

“I’ve been playing with pain for months,” he revealed. “People don’t always see what we footballers go through. Playing while injured, feeling mentally exhausted... I need a few weeks to get back to my best, physically and mentally.”

Pep Guardiola demands a smaller squad and sends ultimatum to the club

Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has delivered a clear message to the club’s hierarchy. After the win over Bournemouth, the Spanish coach warned he won’t continue in his role if he isn’t allowed to work with a smaller group of players.

“I don’t want a large squad. I can’t coach 24 players and leave six in the stands every week. If that’s the case, I’m out,” Guardiola said. He referred to the past winter transfer window, during which City spent over £100 million to cover injuries to key players like Rodri, who missed eight months due to an ACL tear.

With the Club World Cup now their only possible trophy this season, Guardiola is already thinking about restructuring the team, while players like Foden fight to regain full fitness. Manchester City faces a period of deep reflection — in football terms, and beyond.