Phil Foden has revealed that he imitated a training technique he saw Lionel Messi use in order to improve his own game.
Foden has established a reputation as one of the most technically gifted players in English football and was a key contributor to Manchester City’s most recent Premier League championships.
Speaking to the media prior to England’s World Cup quarterfinal matchup with France, Foden revealed how an opportunity to observe Messi practicing a two-touch drill up close was essential to his development. Foden was hailed for greatness at a young age.
“I remember back in the academy and City played Barcelona [in the Champions League]. I remember Messi and Dani Alves doing it [two-touch] from a massive distance and didn’t drop it once! That’s the first time I’d seen anyone do it, and I took it into my own training,” he said.
“Over the years as I’ve practiced it, I’ve just got better and better at it. It’s not easy, not an easy technique to get the pass right, and obviously your touch has got to be on point as well.”
In the World Cup final this winter, Foden’s England might face Messi’s Argentina.
If England defeats France, they will play either Portugal or Morocco in the semifinals, while La Albiceleste will play Croatia next after a thrilling Friday of action.
