(Credit: Imago)

Callum O'Connell

Wed 25 March 2026 8:00, UK

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Phil Foden has grown frustrated at Manchester City as a result of his recent lack of playing time as talks over a new contract offer could again be delayed.

Foden was left out of the starting XI for the Carabao Cup final victory against Arsenal, and touched the ball just once before the final whistle after coming on in added time.

This came after he was left on the bench for the entirety of their two-legged Champions League clash with Real Madrid as they ultimately lost 5-1 on aggregate.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Foden is unhappy with his role and could hold talks with Pep Guardiola about his place in the squad.

While the 25-year-old is not expected to actively push for a move away, there is a growing feeling he could be tempted to move on depending on Man City’s transfer plans.

Phil Foden frustrated with Man City playing time

Football Insider revealed on 15 March that Foden’s contract talks with Man City have stalled amid suggestions he could be lured away from the club this summer.

His recent lack of playing time as part of Guardiola’s side have led to questions about his long-term role in the starting XI, with teammates now replacing him.

The likes of Rayan Cherki are higher on Guardiola’s list as things stand, and Foden has grown frustrated, adding further question marks over his future.

“Foden has been frustrated with his playing time at Man City,” Brown told Football Insider.

“He’s not going to be happy playing as little as he has recently.

“It’s difficult for him with how many players Man City have in his position now, the likes of Cherki coming in who have pushed him down the pecking order.

“That’s coincided with Foden having a drop off in his form, so it raises questions about his future.

“I wouldn’t think he’ll go and start demanding a move away, it’s not that sort of situation, but maybe it will put him off signing a new contract for now.

“I expect his relationship with Guardiola is good enough that he can go to him with his frustrations and find out what he needs to do to get into the side.

“But as things stand, it’s clear he’s not part of that first-choice starting XI after the games against Real Madrid and Arsenal, and that will be a concern.”

How do Man City feel about Foden’s future?

Despite Foden growing frustrated by his lack of playing time in recent weeks, he is still seen as a long-term part of their plans having come through the academy.

Football Insider revealed on 14 March that Man City are accelerating talks with Foden to extend his contract beyond the current 2027 expiry date.

Entering the final year of his deal this summer, the England international could be allowed to leave for free next year if he does not put pen to paper on new terms.

Man City are determined to prevent that happening, and any new deal would secure a future price tag even if they did decide to move him on.

However, his status amongst the fans and affiliation with the club mean an exit is currently considered unlikely despite the building frustrations.