Phil Foden has temporarily left England’s Euro 2024 base in Germany to address a pressing family matter, the English Football Association confirmed on Thursday. The 24-year-old midfielder, pivotal in Manchester City’s Premier League title triumph this season and the recipient of the Premier League Player of the Year award, has started in all three of England’s group stage matches at the tournament.
While it remains uncertain if Foden will return in time for England’s crucial Round of 16 clash on Sunday, his absence could be a significant blow to Gareth Southgate’s side. Foden’s departure comes as England prepare for the knockout stages, having progressed as Group C winners despite not fully living up to their pre-tournament billing as favorites.
Foden is not alone in struggling to mirror his club form on the international stage at the Euros. Despite their status as one of the teams to watch, the Three Lions have found it challenging to impress. They kicked off their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Serbia but have since recorded underwhelming draws against Denmark and Slovenia.
These performances have raised concerns about the team’s ability to meet the high expectations set by their fanbase and critics alike. Southgate’s men have yet to find the attacking fluidity and defensive solidity that characterized their qualification campaign and their run to the final in the previous Euros.
However, there is a silver lining for England. By finishing atop Group C, they have managed to secure a favorable path in the knockout stages. The draw has positioned them away from heavyweights like Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal until the final, should they advance that far. This presents a golden opportunity for the Three Lions to make a deep run in the tournament, provided they can rediscover their form.
As the team prepares for their upcoming match, all eyes will be on Foden’s availability and whether his return can inject the much-needed spark into England’s Euro 2024 campaign.
