Forget Erling Haaland, Man City player who lost possession 16 times vs Everton actually ran the show

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Manchester City moved to the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday.

A double from Erling Haaland secured all three points – taking the Norwegian up to 11 goals in eight Premier League appearances so far this season – although none of his Manchester City teammates have netted more than once in the league.

Regardless of that statistic, Pep Guardiola must be delighted with how Phil Foden put his stamp on the game during the win over Everton.

Phil Foden stepped up to help Erling Haaland in dominant display

The England international was not at his best last season despite a respectable haul of 13 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances – a far cry from his tally of 27 goals and 13 assists in 53 games in the 2023/24 campaign.

Despite failing to notch a goal involvement against the Toffees, Foden – who Joe Cole adores – was utterly superb.

The Manchester City No.47 completed 54 of his attempted 57 passes – with 37 of those coming in the opposition half – while he also hit the woodwork with his only attempt.

Foden also created four goalscoring opportunities, losing possession 16 times in the process – but only because he was willing to put the ball at risk with incisive passes.

The 25-year-old’s industrial side was also on show with five successful ground duels of the nine he was involved in.

Foden can still do better than his total of two goals and two assists in eight outings this term, although Guardiola will surely be absolutely delighted at the desire on show from the City Football Academy graduate against Everton.

Manchester City recognise just how important Phil Foden is

The talent of this player is certainly not lost on those at the Etihad Stadium.

TBR Football understand Manchester City held talks with Foden over a new contract during the international break, with his current terms set to expire in July 2027.

Sources close to the situation believe it is a matter of when, not if, the man born in Stockport pens a new deal.