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By Ethan Carter — 22 July 2026 — 4 min read

Phil Foden has committed his future to Manchester City, signing a new four-year contract that includes an additional 12-month option. This agreement will keep the 26-year-old at his boyhood club until 2030. Foden expressed his enthusiasm for continuing his career with City, stating that playing for the club is all he has ever desired and that wearing the shirt remains an honor.

The new deal follows a period where Foden’s contract was set to expire next summer, leading to some speculation about his future. However, City has demonstrated its faith in the academy graduate, who first began training with the club at a young age.

Commitment to the Club and Future Aspirations

Foden reflected on his journey with Manchester City, acknowledging his fortune in being part of a historic era marked by numerous titles. He emphasized the team’s forward-looking approach and their continuous pursuit of more victories. He also extended his gratitude to the club, staff, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support and faith, hoping to repay them in the coming years.

The midfielder is now the most decorated player at City, having amassed 17 major honors. His trophy cabinet includes six Premier Leagues, one Champions League, three FA Cups, five League Cups, one Uefa Super Cup, and one Club World Cup. This extensive list of achievements comes after the departures of John Stones and Bernardo Silva from the club.

Foden joined City as an eight-year-old and expressed surprise at how long he has been with the club. He noted that while he dreamed of reaching the first team, staying for such an extended period has been a dream come true, and he is focused on enjoying and making the most of his time.

Working with Enzo Maresca

A significant aspect of Foden’s new contract is his anticipation of reuniting with new City manager Enzo Maresca. Maresca previously served as Pep Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 treble-winning season. Foden spoke highly of Maresca’s previous tenure, describing him as brilliant and someone all the players respected and enjoyed working with. He views Maresca’s return as an exciting development for the club.

Foden is particularly hopeful that Maresca’s playing style will complement his game. He noted that early training sessions with Maresca indicate a preference for playing out from the back and a possession-based approach, which he believes suits his style well. He looks forward to this new phase and hopes it will help his game reach another level.

The new deal signifies the strong belief of both Maresca and director of football Hugo Viana in Foden’s ability to regain his top form. Foden had previously lost his starting position under Guardiola and was not included in Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad. His form had reportedly declined since his key role in City’s 2023-24 title success, where he won the Football Writers’ Association and Professional Footballers’ Association player of the year awards.

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

In the last season, Foden started only two league games after the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest on March 4, and was substituted during the FA Cup final victory against Southampton. He also revealed struggles with off-field issues and played through pain from an ankle problem sustained in a goalless draw against Manchester United in April.

Despite these challenges, City has maintained full confidence in Foden. Viana praised Foden as a unique talent and a representation of the club’s academy values. He highlighted Foden’s creativity and attributed his achievements to his focus, dedication, and humility. Viana also noted that at 26, Foden’s development is still ongoing, and the club anticipates seeing his continued growth in the coming years.

Foden made 50 appearances across all competitions for City last season, in addition to four appearances for England in World Cup qualifiers and March friendlies. His agent, Rafaela Pimenta, who also represents City teammate Erling Haaland, negotiated the new contract. Pimenta will continue to work with Foden, potentially providing a stable presence for the player, who has changed representatives multiple times in recent years.

Pre-season activities are set to begin with the club traveling to Hong Kong next week, followed by a trip to Seoul, South Korea. Foden will be among the few first-team players available for Maresca during this Asian tour, offering him an opportunity to gain a head start on many of his teammates as he aims to return to his best form. City is scheduled to play Inter in Hong Kong on Saturday, August 1, before facing K-League All Stars and Atletico Madrid in Seoul.

Source: theguardian.com