Pep Guardiola has explained why Phil Foden struggled against Southampton, insisting the midfielder’s dip in output is only temporary after Manchester City secured a 2-1 victory at Wembley.
Foden was handed his first start since March in the FA Cup semi-final but found it difficult to influence proceedings, prompting Guardiola to replace him just before the hour mark.
The introduction of Savinho provided a more direct threat on the right flank, helping City gain attacking momentum as they pushed for a breakthrough.
Despite the 23-year-old’s recent struggles in front of goal — he has not found the net since December — Guardiola made it clear after the match that he retains complete confidence in the England international’s ability.
Guardiola confident Foden will rediscover form
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Guardiola dismissed any long-term concerns about Foden’s performances, framing the situation as a natural phase that will soon pass.
“Question of a little bit of time,” Guardiola said according to Manchester Evening News
“It was not easy in the first half for him because we were playing in the pockets and his position was being man-marked. For a full-back it is not easy to find him.
“It is a question of time when he will be back.”
Guardiola pointed to tactical factors as a key reason behind Foden’s quiet display, noting how Southampton’s defensive approach limited his involvement in central areas.
With City attempting to operate in tight spaces, Foden often found himself closely tracked, reducing the opportunities for teammates to pick him out effectively.
When pressed further on whether his faith in the midfielder remained intact, Guardiola offered a concise but emphatic response: “Absolutely.”
The City manager’s confidence reflects Foden’s established importance to the squad, having been a consistent performer in previous campaigns.
While his recent run without a goal has raised questions, Guardiola’s remarks suggest there is no sense of urgency or panic within the club regarding his form.
City reach historic fourth consecutive FA Cup final
The victory over Southampton ensured Manchester City progressed to a fourth successive FA Cup final, underlining their continued dominance in domestic competitions under Guardiola.
Reflecting on the contest, Guardiola acknowledged the challenge posed by their opponents, who arrived at Wembley in strong form.
“Southampton were 19 [20] games unbeaten so I never thought that it would be easy.
“The energy that we had with Jeremy [Doku] and Savio, if they started they would not have this energy because Jeremy especially, when you play in three days, the risk to get injured is so massive and a lot of players deserved to play.
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“The first half was not bad, we did not concede much in the second half. We played at the level against Burnley but we arrived in the 18-yard box and we were not clinical enough and we had to wait for a holding midfielder to score an outstanding goal.
“How many times did Southampton cross the halfway in the second half? One. And what a goal. Football is unpredictable but big credit for how they defend and the way they play.”
City controlled large portions of the match but were initially frustrated by Southampton’s organisation and discipline.
Guardiola highlighted his side’s ability to limit the opposition’s attacking transitions, particularly after the interval, while also acknowledging the fine margins that often define knockout fixtures.
The Spaniard also explained his selection decisions, especially regarding the use of substitutes such as Jérémy Doku and Savinho.
By introducing them later in the game, Guardiola believed they were able to inject energy against a tiring defence, a factor that proved decisive as City eventually broke through.
