Man City midfielder Phil Foden ready for Premier League, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola said teenage midfielder Phil Foden has proved he is “mature” enough for the Premier League.

Foden, 18, left a good impression as champions City beat FA Cup holders Chelsea 2-0 in Sunday’s Community Shield match.

The Stockport-born midfielder set up Sergio Aguero to score the first of his two goals at Wembley.

“He was ready last season. Now he is one year on, he is more mature. He was training last season with us and he fought well with all of our players,” said Guardiola.

With key players still absent from the squad, including midfielders Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva, Foden took his opportunity with a confident and composed display in warm conditions.

“It is so good to have another player with his talent. He’s a City fan and Mancunian and it is so good for us,” Guardiola added.

England was a youth international and made his debut for City in the final Premier League match last season being brought on as a substitute.

Guardiola also showered praised on goal scorer Aguero, who became the first player to score 200 goals for City.

“Sergio is a special guy,” said Guardiola. “Now, his knee is perfect, he arrived in a very good condition, a good mood and most important is he scores goals and creates chances.”

Guardiola added: “I am so happy for the players. It’s good to start with one title by our side. We have to play with this attitude and what we have done. We’ll see at the end of the season what our level was.”

City begin the defence of their Premier League title against with a trip to Arsenal next Sunday.