Manchester City star disagrees with Pep Guardiola opinion amid recent comments

Phil Foden has doubted recent praise by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola regarding his status.

The 23-year-old has been pivotal for Manchester City so far this season, registering 28 direct goal involvements across all competitions, including 11 goals and seven assists in the Premier League.

Foden, who has made 258 appearances since making his Manchester City debut against Feyenoord in November 2017, is also set to play a major role in Gareth Southgate’s England squad at this summer’s European Championship in Germany.

The versatile midfielder scored twice during the recent 3-1 comeback win over rivals Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium, and also netted the winning goal against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

Foden scored a second Manchester City hat-trick against Brentford in early February, and has also recently been on the scoresheet against FC Copenhagen, Huddersfield Town, Everton and the FIFA Club World Cup win over Fluminense.

The Englishman has stepped up in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne for the Sky Blues, and could play a crucial role in City’s silverware hopes, as the club bid to win a record-breaking fourth successive Premier League title.

Guardiola’s side also still have aspirations of retaining last season’s treble, having recently reached both the Champions League and Emirates FA Cup quarter-finals.

Despite another impressive campaign, Foden has denied Guardiola’s recent claims that he is “world class” during an interview with Manchester City’s official website.

“I wouldn’t say world class yet. I think I’ve got the potential to be but to hear that from the manager is special for me,” said Foden.

“I still want to keep improving and try to be an even better player. To do it for a number of years – that’s when you get the world class status.

“I have to do it consistently in the biggest games and biggest occasions.”

Foden scored a brace during the recent derby at the Etihad Stadium earlier this month, with the boyhood City fan having scored six goals against United in 12 previous appearances.