Phil Foden recently opened up about the toughest opponents he’s faced throughout his burgeoning career, particularly singling out the former attacking trio of Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, and Mohamed Salah from Liverpool as the hardest to play against.
The Manchester City star, who turned 24 in May and already boasts nearly 300 first-team appearances for his boyhood club, acknowledged the significant challenge Liverpool’s frontline posed during their peak years.
Foden told The Times: “It’s hard to say one player, but if I had to say a team it would be Liverpool when Mane, Salah, Firmino, were together — their team was sensational.” He continued to highlight the tactical pressure the trio put on opponents: “The way they pressed.
That was the toughest game, when we used to play them.” Foden’s comments reflect the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs, with Liverpool often emerging as the most consistent challengers to City’s dominance in recent years.
Looking at the present-day Liverpool side, Foden noted that despite not always being in the spotlight like Manchester City or Arsenal, Jurgen Klopp’s men still have the potential to be a major threat. “They look frightening to be fair,” Foden added.
“They’ve gone under the radar a bit because everyone was talking about City and Arsenal but we know how good they are. [Sunday’s match] is going to be a challenge and we’re up for it.”
Foden also took time to praise two of his Manchester City teammates, David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne, as the most talented players he’s ever had the pleasure of playing alongside.
Silva, a club legend, was described as an idol by Foden, while De Bruyne’s consistency and exceptional contributions to City’s attack were also lauded. “There are so many but I always say David [Silva], he was my idol and stuff,” Foden said.
“But when I look at Kevin [De Bruyne], the numbers that he puts in, assists goals — I think those two are the most talented I’ve played with. Consistency as well. Never less than seven out of ten.”
Foden’s remarks provide valuable insight into not only his respect for Liverpool’s former attacking force but also the admiration he holds for his current and past teammates.
With City preparing for a key fixture against the Premier League leaders, Foden’s focus on the challenge ahead, alongside his high praise for Silva and De Bruyne, speaks volumes about the professionalism and competitive drive at the heart of this Manchester City squad.
