Phil Foden shuts down suggestion that Manchester City star is among 'world class' elite in football

Ahead of the FIFA World Cup opener for England in Qatar, Phil Foden has been discussing how he needs to improve his game in order to be compared to the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi.

The Manchester City youngster has the potential to become one of the nation's finest midfielders, with his ability being showcased from a young age since his debut for the Etihad club.

The Stockport-born playmaker first joined City at under-nine level, and now aged 21, he has already won four Premier League medals and four Carabao Cups.

Foden also became the youngest Englishman to start in a Champions League game when he was named in the starting eleven against Shakhtar Donetsk back in 2017.

However, Phil Foden himself believes that his England performances have not been up to the level that he has shown in the Premier League, and the figures show he may have a point, as his 18 appearances for his country has only seen him score twice.

When discussing his performances for England, Foden said, “I definitely should have scored a lot more.

“I am still learning, still learning the group of players as well. I am hoping this World Cup is good for me and hopefully I can bring goals.”

Phil Foden has already netted eight times for Manchester City this season, which in a team with the Premier League top goalscorer, is certainly impressive.

Many would think that someone who is so well established at such a young age could be described as world-class, but Foden disagrees.

“No, I definitely don’t see myself as world-class,” said the 21-year-old.

“I've got to score in big games and finals to be world class. I know it’s something I'm capable of, so it’s something I strive for.”

With the FIFA World Cup beginning over the weekend, it is the perfect big opportunity for Foden to get himself on the scoresheet.

Phil Foden, Manchester City and England.

“Players such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo are way above me at the moment but I like to think I could be there one day,” he continued.

“It’s all about taking small steps in the right direction, I just want to take my club form into the national team.

“I am back playing more wide this year, previous years I was playing as a false nine as well. It definitely helps having someone as a target like Erling Haaland, it gives us a little bit more space.

“I have added more goals, getting in the right areas, it is good that I am improving that side of my game as I see myself as a goalscorer.”

Foden and England’s World Cup tournament gets underway on Monday 21st November when they face Iran.

England are seen as favourites to win their group, but with it being the World Cup, they know they will face three tough oppositions.