Rafael Benitez has made an observation about Phil Foden ahead of England’s upcoming Euro 2024 final against Spain on Sunday.
Foden has played in central positions in the Three Lions’ previous two outings against Switzerland and the Netherlands; with Gareth Southgate expected to start him as an attacking midfielder against Luis de la Fuente’s side as well.
Manchester City’s number 47 will be one of the players expected to light up England’s much-awaited showdown against Spain.
For City last season, Foden showed time and again that he can be relied upon to deliver in the biggest moments.
Rafael Benitez makes key observation about Phil Foden ahead of England vs Spain
Several midfielders have taken centerstage in major tournament finals for their countries.
Andres Iniesta’s name stands out — scoring a sublime winner in Spain’s 2010 World Cup final triumph against the Netherlands in their 1-0 win.
However, aside from goals and assists, players like Xavi Hernandez, N’Golo Kante and Andrea Pirlo have all ran the show for their nations in such finals.
A factor that could help Foden in doing so against Spain is how he feels during the game — with Rafael Benitez noting that he has looked a lot happier in an England shirt in recent games.
Benitez told AS: “You can see that [Phil] Foden is happier since moving off the left and over towards central areas and the right. He is influencing matches and has a good understanding with Bukayo Saka on that side of the pitch. Similarly, Declan Rice is going to the left and Bellingham is moving between the lines.”
“He is a great talent and a street kid who plays football with the passion of the street.”
Phil Foden must be feeling confident knowing he will start in midfield in Euro 2024 final
In the initial games of the competition, perhaps the 24-year-old was not feeling his most confident self due to knowing he was set to play out of position as a left-winger.
But as Rafael Benitez claimed, Foden looks a lot more content playing centrally and knowing he could play in his natural role against Spain, he would be feeling far more assured knowing he could make a difference for England.
Even some of the best players in the world have a preference for playing in certain positions.
Considering how spectacular a team Spain are, it would have been a huge challenge for Foden to be impactful off either flank.
The Stockport-born technician, however, has every reason to be feeling content and full of self-belief heading into Sunday’s blockbuster clash.
