London – Kevin De Bruyne believes Phil Foden will reach new heights once he is granted a leadership role later in his career at Manchester City.
Foden scored a hat-trick in Sunday’s 6-3 Premier League victory over fierce rivals Manchester United for City.
The English striker’s goal-scoring prowess at the Etihad Stadium was simply a part of an amazing all-around performance that highlighted his rise as one of City’s most important players.
As a result of Erling Haaland’s hat-trick in the Manchester derby and his continued blistering form, City’s attack seems even more potent than previous season.
But City midfielder De Bruyne believes Foden, who presently plays on the wings for Pep Guardiola’s squad, has yet to reach his full potential.
The Belgian believes that the 22-year-old will blossom as he matures and becomes City’s creative focal point — a position now occupied by De Bruyne.
“He is just 22. I recognize that at age 22 I was not the player I am now,” De Bruyne stated.
“He is so talented that it is difficult to establish consistency. He’s been playing phenomenally well for us, so he’ll be around for a while.
Foden is skilled enough, according to De Bruyne, to play in multiple areas, and he expects him to play more centrally as his career advances.
“At what does he not excel? “He can play a variety of positions,” he stated.
“I believe he will eventually play in the center of the field, but for the time being he would benefit from having more flexibility and fewer instructions on the wing so he can flow into the game.”
“As he ages and gains stamina, I anticipate him playing a more central position. It’s all about the smallest of aspects in order to achieve greater consistency in the performances.”