Phil Foden Shines Bright with Hat-Trick in City's 5-1 Victory Over AEK Athens

Phil Foden reminded everyone of his exceptional abilities with a dazzling performance in Manchester City's 5-1 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League. With a hat-trick and an assist to his name, he became just the third Englishman, following Wayne Rooney and Raheem Sterling, to achieve this feat in the competition. After struggling for form in recent seasons, Foden’s display was a welcome return to the spotlight. Missing out on the England squad for the World Cup last summer stung, but he approached this season with optimism, eager for a 'fresh start' under new manager Enzo Maresca. His journey to this resurgence wasn't without bumps—his red card in the Manchester derby in September was a low point. However, after scoring against Ipswich last weekend, Foden seemed to unleash a new wave of confidence, culminating in his stunning hat-trick in front of the Etihad crowd. "I enjoyed that a lot," Foden said post-match. "The lads were great again. We showed determination. As a forward, I need to keep scoring and helping the team. It boosts my confidence." When asked about his form, he added, "Slowly, but surely. I still have a long way to go, but I’m heading in the right direction. Scoring definitely helps me. I want to keep working hard and be the best I can for the manager and the team." Watching Foden glide across the pitch was a delight for City fans, especially as he contributed to four of the team's five goals. Manager Maresca took a gamble by making eight changes from the last match, retaining only Gianluigi Donnarumma, Ruben Dias, and Foden. Erling Haaland was in the squad but rested due to an injury, allowing Foden to explore the false nine role. Starting on the right, he soon shifted into the central position, a change that proved fruitful as he expressed how much he enjoyed the new role. Despite a moment of concern when AEK pulled a goal back early in the second half, City kicked it up a notch and quickly regained control. By the final whistle, Foden had not only scored three but also assisted another goal, solidifying his status as a key player. His first and third goals were close-range finishes, but it was the second one that truly dazzled, as he elegantly curled a shot from just inside the box into the top corner. "Beautiful - that’s the word I’d use to describe him," praised former City defender Joleon Lescott. "His finishing was exquisite." Foden, who had an impressive tally of 19 goals last season, had faced challenges but signed a new four-year contract in July, showing his commitment to the club. The red card incident could have been a setback, but Foden's aim now is to build on this momentum. Maresca expressed pride in Foden's growth, stating, "I’ve always considered him one of the best English players. He’s had some issues over the past two years, but he’s going to be vital for us. We’re eager to see him at his best." Former England winger Ashley Young noted on BBC Radio 5 Live that Foden seized his chance, saying, "By getting a hat-trick, his confidence is going to be sky high. Maresca will be pleased to have avoided bringing on Haaland or Doku, allowing his squad to shine. Foden is showing he deserves a spot in the starting lineup."