Manchester City's Phil Foden Seeks Rest Amid Ankle Injury, England, Club World Cup Commitments

Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden is seeking rest this summer to recover from both mental fatigue and a significant ankle injury sustained during a Manchester derby in April. Despite being named PFA Player of the Year last season, Foden has struggled this campaign with only limited playing time and diminished form, citing off-field issues and persistent pain. He is considering missing England's upcoming World Cup qualifiers and friendlies, as well as the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, to fully heal and recharge. Foden has emphasized the difficulty of balancing his physical condition with international commitments and is in discussions with both Manchester City and the England national team about the best approach. His candidness highlights the pressures on top players amid fixture congestion and the toll of continuous competition. Foden hopes that this break will allow him to regain his mental focus and return to his previous high level of performance.