Premier League1 hour ago2 minute read

Enzo Maresca Working to Bring Phil Foden Back to His Peak

Enzo Maresca feels a duty to help Phil Foden return to his best form for Manchester City while refining Rayan Cherki.

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Foden Finds His Scoring Touch

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca believes he has a duty to help Phil Foden return to his top level. Foden has enjoyed a strong return to form recently, scoring four goals across his last two appearances after serving a domestic suspension. That scoring run was highlighted by a midweek hat trick against AEK Athens.

The 26 year old was left out of the England squad for the World Cup. His recent run of goals has now raised the possibility of an international return. Maresca took over at the Etihad Stadium during the summer and took an immediate interest in the forward.

The manager explained that he sat down with Foden two or three times early in his tenure to make sure the player felt valued. Maresca acknowledged that Foden was not good enough over the past few years for various reasons. Still, he knows the player well from previous years and believes having him available makes Manchester City a much better team.

Finding the Right Role for Cherki

Maresca is also focused on getting the most out of Rayan Cherki. The 23 year old French playmaker scored fine goals against Liverpool and AEK Athens in recent weeks.

Maresca called Cherki one of the best players in Europe right now, but he wants the young attacker to work on his positioning. Cherki loves having the ball and tends to move all over the pitch, which can leave him out of position. Maresca noted that when Manchester City can find Cherki between the lines, he becomes a major weapon.

Speaking before Saturday's trip to Aston Villa, Maresca pointed to his 35 years in the sport and his time playing with Alessandro Del Piero and Zinedine Zidane. He wants Cherki to keep his natural instincts and stay happy, while keeping his choices simple so he can create chances for the team.

What it means for the next game

Aston Villa vs Manchester City (Premier League, Sat, 24 Oct): Aston Villa win 22%, draw 23%, Manchester City win 55%; expected goals 1.16 to 1.96. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Manchester City vs Brighton & Hove Albion (Carabao Cup, Wed, 28 Oct): Manchester City win 57%, draw 22%, Brighton & Hove Albion win 22%; expected goals 2.10 to 1.24. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.