Phil Foden opens up on England World Cup heartache: "Hearing the anthem was tough"

Phil Foden has opened up on the pain of missing out on England's World Cup 2026 squad, admitting that watching from home was one of the toughest moments of his career. The Manchester City midfielder, 26, said it stung every time he watched the team, especially hearing the anthem while he sat outside the squad. "It was painful, especially watching the games and hearing the anthem. I watched one game in a local pub - it was hard, even though everyone around me was celebrating," Foden said. Foden did not dodge questions about his form. He believes he started the season well before fading, and feels some of the criticism aimed at him went too far. Now he wants to respond on the pitch. "I want to prove people wrong," he said. The midfielder also spoke about his future. With a new Manchester City contract running through 2031, Foden says he feels a renewed sense of confidence. Leaving the club was never on his mind - he has been there since the age of four. "I never thought about leaving. I've been here since I was four," he added. Foden's goal now is clear: re-establish himself as one of City's key players and earn his way back into the England squad.