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Rooney: Foden's Decline Linked to Guardiola's Tactical Shift

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Wayne Rooney attributes Phil Foden's reduced playing time at Manchester City to Pep Guardiola's tactical shift toward a more dynamic and direct style, aided by new signings Semenyo and Cherki.
Rooney notes the changes may not suit Foden's style.
Since Foden's last goal, Semenyo, Cherki, and O'Reilly have scored 17 goals combined.
Foden faced criticism for not tracking a player during a recent match, leading to his substitution.
Former City midfielder Michael Brown suggests Foden may be dealing with an injury, questioning the sudden change in his playing time.

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Story summary

Wayne Rooney attributes Phil Foden's reduced playing time at Manchester City to Pep Guardiola's tactical shift toward a more dynamic and direct style, aided by new signings Semenyo and Cherki.
Rooney notes the changes may not suit Foden's style.
Since Foden's last goal, Semenyo, Cherki, and O'Reilly have scored 17 goals combined.
Foden faced criticism for not tracking a player during a recent match, leading to his substitution.
Former City midfielder Michael Brown suggests Foden may be dealing with an injury, questioning the sudden change in his playing time.