SAME OLD FODEN...

Guardiola's new-look City taking shape but it's one familiar face that's ruling the roost

- BY JOHN CROSS Chief Football Writer X@johncrossmirror

PEP GUARDIOLA unveiled his new-look Manchester City - and yet it was a familiar face who stole the show.

Phil Foden scored, provided an assist and, more importantly, looked like he was a man on a mission as City cruised to victory, even if they finished with 10 men after Rico Lewis' late red card. Foden was City's stand-out player in their last title-winning season of 2023/24 when he was also the best player in the Premier League.

And yet this season so far - you quickly forget which season the Club World Cup is actually in - has been frustrating for Foden through injury, form and even losing his England place.

But this felt like a statement of intent from a man who was sharp, looked super fit and in the mood as he buzzed around in the midday heat in Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field.