Phil Foden is one of the most versatile players in the current Manchester City squad.
Throughout his time at City, Foden has been tasked to play in a variety of positions; a responsibility he has embraced from a young age.
When the 24-year-old began to be named in the starting XI at Manchester City, he was initially played as a right-winger during the backend of the 2019/2020 season.
In the following campaign, the £225,000-a-week man was deployed as a left-winger.
Since then, Foden has played as a false nine, on both flanks and in midfield while managing to impress across all such positions for one of the best teams in the world.
Apart from the Stockport-born midfielder, another tactically flexible player at Manchester City’s disposal is John Stones.
Foden hails Man City teammate
Stones’ versatility is one of the many reasons why he is one of the best centre-backs in the world.
Apart from playing in the centre of Manchester City’s defence, the Barnsley-born technician has also been deployed at right-back and as an inverted defender in the past.
A majority of central defenders would likely not be trusted to play in such positions.
However, the 30-year-old seems to enjoy the responsibility of doing so as he has shone in such roles.
Foden was playing a guessing game with Angel Gomes on ITV Sport where the pair were discussing their England teammates.
When Stones’ name came up, the City academy graduate brought up his versatility as the clue in the game.
“This guy probably could play, probably anywhere to be fair, he’s that good.”
“Funny guy, very good on the ball.”
Pep Guardiola needs John Stones to step up
Foden’s assessment of his countryman is especially justified as he has witnessed how flexible he can be on the pitch.
For the remainder of the 2024/2025 season, Pep Guardiola will be depending on Stones, especially in the wake of Rodri’s injury-enforced absence.
The Englishman’s experience and versatility will come in handy for Guardiola, whose biggest challenge is to create a tactical blueprint that can help City succeed in the Spanish international’s absence.
With Stones capable of playing his signature hybrid role where he can step into midfield, the Manchester City boss may be seriously considering rehashing this particular setup that worked wonders when his side won the treble.
Furthermore, the former Everton defender’s presence could also help Manchester City curb their leakiness at the back.
Stones remains extremely vital to this City side this campaign and it would be no surprise if he is played in a multitude of positions.
If the six-time Premier League winner is ready to step up to the challenge, Pep Guardiola would let out a sigh of relief.
