Pep Guardiola insists he has no doubts about Phil Foden after the 18-year-old helped Manchester City to a 2-1 victory over Hoffenheim to secure top spot in their group.
With a mini-injury crisis at the Etihad Stadium, Foden was given his first Champions League start of the season and the City boss said he made the most of his opportunity.
“Phil was incredible the way he played,” Guardiola told a news conference. “I would never have doubts about the quality of that guy — not just with the ball.
“He looks skinny, not strong, but he’s really really strong. He’s an outstanding young player, I think England has a diamond.
“I know it’s not easy when you are with the big clubs. Few 18-year-olds could play regularly, competing with Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and David Silva. He’s special, he has had minutes and in the future will have a lot of them. He played like a real man — he was so good.”
De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero trained with the first team ahead of the clash with Hoffenheim but were not risked on Wednesday night. They could both be in contention for Saturday’s early kick-off with Everton as they try to overtake Liverpool in the Premier League following their first defeat of the season against Chelsea.
“When you lose it’s important to break [the run] immediately,” he added. “Now in less than 61 hours we have another game against Everton at 12.30 p.m.”
“We have to prepare and go to the fridge, sleep there and recover as quick as possible for that game.”
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate