Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has openly expressed his sympathy for Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden, following what he described as a "charity sub" appearance during the Carabao Cup final. Rooney's comments came during an episode of his BBC show, where he reflected on Foden's brief cameo in City's victory over Arsenal.
Foden's Late Entry in Wembley Triumph
Phil Foden was introduced as a substitute in the 90th minute of Manchester City's Carabao Cup final clash against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. At that point, Pep Guardiola's side were comfortably leading 2-0, with the trophy effectively secured. Foden replaced Rayan Cherki, who has recently been preferred in the starting lineup, while the January signing of Antoine Semenyo has further pushed Foden down the pecking order at the Etihad.
Rooney's Candid Assessment
Speaking on the BBC's Wayne Rooney Show, the ex-England captain did not hold back in his analysis. "I felt sad for him but not sad because he is coming on in a cup final," Rooney stated. He elaborated by pointing out that Foden had been left out entirely in a recent match, making this late substitution seem particularly poignant. "If that was Max Dowman coming on at the end, you would think good experience. But to see Phil Foden coming on in a cup final, it felt like a charity sub to get him on the pitch."
Rooney expressed confusion over Foden's sudden decline in playing time, noting the midfielder's previous accolades. "I don't know what has happened, he is a top player. It feels strange he can't get anywhere near the team. It feels like something has gone on there," he added. Despite City's cup win, Rooney believes Foden would have preferred a more influential role. "Firstly he will be pleased they won the cup but from a selfish point of view, he would have wanted to be out there and having an influence. That will be a tough one for him."
Foden's Recent Struggles
The 25-year-old Foden, who was named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year in the 2023/24 season, has faced a challenging period. He has started only four of City's last 13 matches across all competitions and has not scored a goal since mid-December. Following the Carabao Cup final, Foden acknowledged the "ups and downs" inherent in a footballer's career, vowing to regain his early-season form.
Despite his club struggles, Foden has been included in Thomas Tuchel's 35-man squad for the upcoming March internationals. However, doubts persist about whether he will secure a spot in the more streamlined World Cup squad this summer, given his limited game time at Manchester City.
Rooney's remarks highlight the broader issue of player morale and management decisions in top-level football, as Foden's situation continues to draw attention from fans and pundits alike.
