Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been described as the best player in England and even compared to Lionel Messi, with former Chelsea and England international Joe Cole leading the praise.
The City academy graduate has long been tipped as one of the finest talents of his generation, and his performances for both club and country have reignited debate about his place among the world’s elite.
The 24-year-old has grown into one of the most important players for Pep Guardiola’s side, playing a pivotal role in Manchester City’s historic dominance in recent years.
A technically gifted and intelligent footballer, Foden has consistently shown the ability to change games with his creativity, goals, and pressing intensity.
In the 2023/24 campaign, he reached new heights in his career, delivering some of the finest performances seen in the Premier League.
Leading City’s attack, Foden was central to ensuring that the Sky Blues claimed their fourth consecutive Premier League title.
Also, his efforts earned him recognition as the PFA Player of the Year, further cementing his reputation as one of England’s brightest stars.
Phil Foden compared to Lionel Messi
Such was his influence that Joe Cole publicly drew a remarkable comparison between Foden and Argentine legend Lionel Messi when addressing his omission from the most recent England squad.
Cole argued that when Foden is at his best, he reaches levels rarely seen by any English player.
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“When Phil Foden plays well, to the best of his ability, like the season before last, he’s the best player in the country,” Cole said per talksport
“There’s only one player who can produce that type of level of performance over the last 15 years consistently, that’s Lionel Messi, and there’s a reason he’s the greatest player in the world,” he added.
Foden’s struggles and the call for patience
Despite the glowing praise, Foden’s career has not been without its setbacks.
Following his brilliant 2023/24 campaign, his form dipped the following season as injuries and fitness concerns disrupted his rhythm.
Manchester City, who had grown accustomed to Foden’s influence in attack, endured a more difficult season and finished short of their usual standards, securing only a UEFA Champions League spot instead of the league crown.
Foden’s struggles also extended to the national team. His omission from the most recent England squad sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some questioning Thomas Tuchel’s decision.
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Joe Cole, however, was quick to defend the midfielder and insisted that patience was key.
“He had a difficult season last year, we don’t know the problems he had off the pitch or injuries, or what it was. But you have to keep faith with these type of players, you can’t just,” Cole stressed.
