Pep Guardiola believes Manchester City superstar Phil Foden is now one of the best in the game after excelling in a more central role – but the 23-year-old insists he still has more to do
“I have to do it consistently in the biggest games and biggest occasions. It’s the most consistent (run of) games that I’ve played. I’ve been playing in a new position as well – more inside and more midfield and I’m enjoying it.
“I’m enjoying the season and I’m in good form at the moment, so I want to keep that up. Sometimes it just clicks and happens – you get a run of games. There’s nothing more to it.
“I think the manager tactically changes every game, depending on the opponent. For me, it’s given me a lot more freedom to pick up the ball a lot more and do a lot more things. I’ve enjoyed it every time I play there.”
Foden scored a hat-trick in the corresponding fixture last season and was also on target when City beat United at Old Trafford in October. The Stockport-born playmaker understands the importance of local bragging rights – but he is also looking at the bigger picture as he goes in search of his sixth title medal
Foden said: “I know what it’s about, I know how the fans feel. It’s a big occasion and I’m happy that I’m part of it. I feel there’s a little bit more pressure on the game because it’s the one that everyone cares about.
“It’s the one fans want to win desperately. Just to win – it doesn’t matter how. Just to win the game is important for us and the season. The team knows that we have to win the games, or we are not going to win anything. That’s what it is. There’s nothing more to it.
“We’ve shown it in the past and we’ve done it on a few occasions. Hopefully, we can do it again this season. It’s the biggest month. It’s where the titles are going to be decided, I think.”
