Pundit says he could genuinely see ‘really special’ Man City player signing for Arsenal

The summer of 2025 represents a pivotal moment in Manchester City’s recent history, with the club embarking on what many consider to be one of the most significant rebuilds under Pep Guardiola’s tenure. The catalyst for this transformation stems from the 2024/25 season—a campaign that will be remembered as one of the most disappointing in the Guardiola era, marking the first time since his arrival that City concluded a season without lifting a single trophy.

This unprecedented failure has prompted the Catalan manager to reassess his squad comprehensively, leading to speculation about numerous high-profile departures from the Etihad Stadium. Among the players whose futures hang in the balance are Jack Grealish, Ilkay Gundogan, Ederson, Kyle Walker, and Bernardo Silva—each representing different aspects of City’s recent success story, yet all potentially facing exits as Guardiola seeks to inject fresh energy into his aging squad.

However, perhaps the most surprising name to emerge in transfer discussions is Phil Foden, the homegrown talent who has long been considered the crown jewel of City’s academy system and the embodiment of Guardiola’s philosophy. The suggestion that Arsenal could make a move for the England international has sent shockwaves through the football community, raising questions about loyalty, ambition, and the evolving dynamics of modern football transfers.

Phil Foden: From Academy Graduate to England Star

To understand the magnitude of a potential Foden departure, one must first appreciate his journey at Manchester City. Born and raised in Stockport, Foden joined City’s academy at the tender age of eight, progressing through every level of the youth system before making his senior debut in 2017. His rise through the ranks epitomizes the success of City’s investment in youth development, representing a rare example of a local talent breaking into one of Europe’s elite teams.

The 2023/24 season marked the pinnacle of Foden’s career to date, as he delivered performances that elevated him to the very top tier of English football. His exceptional displays throughout that campaign earned him the prestigious PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, a recognition that placed him alongside some of the greatest talents in Premier League history. The Football Writers’ Association also honored him with their Player of the Year award, cementing his status as the standout performer in English football.

During that remarkable season, Foden showcased the complete package of skills that had made him such a coveted prospect from his youth days. His ability to drift between positions, create chances for teammates, and find the back of the net with remarkable consistency made him virtually unplayable at times. His performances in crucial matches, particularly in the Champions League and during City’s title run-in, demonstrated a maturity and composure that belied his years.

The England international’s versatility became one of his greatest assets, with Guardiola utilizing him across multiple positions in the attacking third. Whether deployed as a traditional winger, an inverted wide player, or in a more central attacking midfield role, Foden adapted seamlessly, always managing to influence games through his technical ability, pace, and football intelligence.

The Disappointing 2024/25 Campaign

The contrast between Foden’s exceptional 2023/24 season and his struggles during the 2024/25 campaign could hardly be more stark. For a player who had reached such heights just months earlier, the subsequent season represented a significant regression that left fans, pundits, and coaching staff searching for explanations.

Several factors may have contributed to Foden’s decline in form. The weight of expectations following his award-winning season likely played a role, as opponents began to pay special attention to nullifying his influence. The tactical adjustments made by opposing teams, who had studied his game extensively during the summer break, made it increasingly difficult for him to find the space and time that had been so crucial to his previous success.

Additionally, City’s overall struggles as a team inevitably impacted individual performances. The lack of cohesion that characterized much of their 2024/25 season meant that players like Foden, who thrive on quick passing combinations and fluid movement, found themselves isolated and unable to influence games as effectively as in previous campaigns.

Physical and mental fatigue may also have been contributing factors. The demands of modern football, particularly for a player involved in major tournaments with England, can take a significant toll. The compressed schedule and lack of proper rest periods may have affected Foden’s sharpness and decision-making throughout the season.

From a tactical perspective, Guardiola’s continued evolution of City’s playing style may have temporarily disrupted the understanding between Foden and his teammates. New signings, different formations, and altered responsibilities within the team structure all require time to develop, and this transitional period may have coincided with Foden’s individual struggles.

Arsenal’s Interest and the Arteta Connection

The suggestion that Arsenal could pursue Phil Foden represents one of the most intriguing potential transfers in recent memory, largely due to the existing relationship between the player and Gunners manager Mikel Arteta. The Spanish coach’s intimate knowledge of Foden’s abilities, developed during his time as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, provides Arsenal with a unique advantage in any potential pursuit.

Arteta’s tenure as Guardiola’s right-hand man coincided with Foden’s emergence as a first-team player, meaning the Arsenal manager has observed the England international’s development at close quarters. This familiarity with Foden’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement could prove invaluable in convincing both the player and Manchester City that a move to the Emirates Stadium would benefit all parties involved.

From Arsenal’s perspective, acquiring a player of Foden’s caliber would represent a significant statement of intent. The Gunners have made substantial progress under Arteta’s guidance, consistently challenging for major honors and establishing themselves as genuine contenders in both domestic and European competitions. However, the addition of a proven Premier League performer with international experience would elevate their squad to another level entirely.

Foden’s technical abilities align perfectly with Arsenal’s playing philosophy under Arteta. The emphasis on possession-based football, quick passing combinations, and positional interchange that characterizes the Gunners’ approach would suit Foden’s skill set admirably. His experience in high-pressure situations and ability to perform in crucial moments would also address one of Arsenal’s historical weaknesses—their tendency to falter in decisive matches.

The precedent set by previous transfers between the two clubs adds credibility to the speculation surrounding Foden’s potential move. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko both made successful transitions from Manchester City to Arsenal, suggesting that Guardiola is willing to allow players to join direct rivals if he believes it serves the best interests of all parties involved.

Tony Cascarino’s Assessment and Expert Opinion

Pundit Tony Cascarino’s analysis of the potential transfer carries significant weight due to his extensive experience in professional football and his reputation for insightful commentary. His assertion that Foden would be a more likely Arsenal target than Jack Grealish reveals an understanding of both clubs’ strategic priorities and the realistic possibilities within the current transfer market.

Cascarino’s emphasis on the existing relationship between Arteta and Foden cannot be understated. In modern football, where personal relationships and mutual understanding often prove decisive in transfer negotiations, the Spanish coach’s intimate knowledge of the player’s character and abilities provides Arsenal with a significant advantage over other potential suitors.

The pundit’s observation that Foden “just hasn’t been the player we know him to be this season” reflects a broader sentiment within football circles. The England international’s struggles have been well-documented, but rather than viewing this as a permanent decline, many experts see it as a temporary setback that could be resolved with the right environment and coaching.

Cascarino’s suggestion that City might be willing to allow Foden’s departure stems from his understanding of Guardiola’s ruthless approach to squad management. The Catalan coach has never been sentimental about player retention, consistently demonstrating his willingness to make difficult decisions if he believes they will benefit the team’s long-term success.

Gary Neville’s Perspective and Professional Recognition

The endorsement from Gary Neville, who described Foden as “really, really special,” carries particular significance given the former Manchester United defender’s reputation for objective analysis despite his club allegiances. Neville’s willingness to praise a Manchester City player so effusively demonstrates the universal recognition of Foden’s exceptional talent within football circles.

This professional recognition extends beyond individual pundits to encompass the broader football community. Coaches, players, and analysts consistently identify Foden as one of the most technically gifted players in the Premier League, praising his ability to execute complex skills under pressure and his football intelligence that allows him to read the game at an advanced level.

The fact that such praise comes from figures associated with Manchester United—City’s fierce local rivals—underscores the objective nature of these assessments. When former players and coaches from opposing teams acknowledge a player’s exceptional abilities, it reflects a consensus view that transcends club loyalties and speaks to genuine quality.

Tactical Analysis: How Foden Would Fit at Arsenal

From a tactical standpoint, Phil Foden’s potential integration into Arsenal’s system presents fascinating possibilities for Mikel Arteta. The England international’s versatility would provide the Spanish coach with numerous options for team selection and in-game adjustments, addressing one of the key challenges in modern football—the need for tactical flexibility.

In Arsenal’s preferred 4-3-3 formation, Foden could operate effectively in multiple positions. His natural ability to drift inside from wide positions would allow him to create overloads in central areas, a tactic that has become increasingly prevalent in Arteta’s tactical approach. The combination play between Foden and established Arsenal stars like Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka could prove devastating for opposing defenses.

Alternatively, Foden’s creativity and vision make him an ideal candidate for a more central role, where he could operate as the primary creative hub for Arsenal’s attacks. His ability to find space between the lines and his precise passing range would complement the movement of Arsenal’s forward players, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities.

The England international’s pressing intensity and defensive work rate would also align with Arsenal’s high-energy approach off the ball. His willingness to track back and contribute defensively has always been one of his strengths, making him an ideal fit for Arteta’s demands on his attacking players to contribute to the team’s overall defensive structure.

The Historical Context of Inter-Club Transfers

The potential transfer of Phil Foden from Manchester City to Arsenal must be viewed within the broader context of high-profile moves between Premier League rivals. While such transfers were once considered almost impossible, the modern football landscape has seen numerous examples of players moving between direct competitors.

The successful transitions of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from City to Arsenal provide the most relevant precedents for a potential Foden move. Both players have flourished under Arteta’s guidance, suggesting that the tactical and cultural transition between the two clubs can be managed effectively.

Jesus, in particular, has demonstrated how a player who struggled for consistent playing time at City can rediscover his best form in a different environment. His goal-scoring record and overall contribution to Arsenal’s attack have vindicated Arteta’s decision to pursue him, while also showing City fans what they lost when he departed.

Zinchenko’s adaptation has been equally impressive, with the Ukrainian international becoming an integral part of Arsenal’s defensive structure while also contributing significantly to their attacking play. His versatility and tactical intelligence have made him one of Arteta’s most trusted players, highlighting how former City players can thrive in North London.

Financial Considerations and Transfer Logistics

Any potential transfer of Phil Foden would involve significant financial considerations for both clubs. As one of Manchester City’s most valuable assets, the England international would command a substantial transfer fee, likely placing him among the most expensive signings in Arsenal’s history.

City’s perspective on a potential sale would be influenced by several factors, including their need to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations and their desire to fund other transfer targets. The club’s substantial investment in new signings over recent years means that player sales may be necessary to balance the books, potentially making previously untouchable stars available for transfer.

From Arsenal’s standpoint, the financial commitment required to secure Foden’s services would represent a significant gamble. The transfer fee alone would likely exceed £80 million, while his wage demands would place him among the highest earners at the Emirates Stadium. However, the potential return on investment—both in terms of on-field performance and commercial value—could justify such expenditure.

The structure of any potential deal would likely be complex, involving performance-related add-ons and sell-on clauses that protect both clubs’ interests. Arsenal’s recent experience in negotiating high-profile transfers provides them with the expertise necessary to structure a deal that satisfies all parties involved.

The Player’s Perspective and Career Considerations

From Phil Foden’s perspective, a potential move to Arsenal would represent both an opportunity and a risk. The chance to work with Mikel Arteta, who played a crucial role in his early development at Manchester City, could provide the fresh start needed to rediscover his best form.

The guarantee of regular playing time at Arsenal might prove attrac