Phil Foden was left out of Thomas Tuchel's England World Cup squad due to a significant drop in form.
What happened to Phil Foden's club form?
His overall performance levels plummeted dramatically, with 10 goals and seven assists in 50 appearances for Manchester City.
He was demoted to the substitute bench for City's most critical fixtures, including the Champions League knockout matches against Real Madrid.
Why was Phil Foden not chosen by Thomas Tuchel?
Tuchel was confused by Foden's tactical deployment at the club level, making it difficult to integrate him into the international set-up.
The manager prioritised tactical synergy and structural balance over individual reputation when finalising his 26-man roster.
How did other players affect Phil Foden's selection?
The emergence of elite playmakers like Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers ultimately squeezed Foden out of the squad.
Bellingham and Rogers enjoyed superior individual campaigns and earned their places ahead of Foden.
Foden was given a direct audition during England's pre-tournament friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan but failed to impress Tuchel.
What's next for Phil Foden?
The German manager made cutthroat decisions to end England's 60-year trophy drought, axing other massive stars like Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Harry Maguire.
Foden will now focus on regaining his form and pushing for a place in the England squad for future tournaments.
He has the talent and ability to make a significant impact on the international stage.
But for now, he must watch from the sidelines as England competes in the World Cup without him.
The decision to leave Foden out of the squad was likely a difficult one for Tuchel, given the player's potential and previous performances.
However, the manager has made it clear that he prioritises the team's needs over individual reputations.
Foden's exclusion from the squad is a reminder that no player is guaranteed a place in the England team.
He will need to work hard to regain his form and prove himself to Tuchel and the England coaching staff.
The World Cup is a significant tournament, and England will be looking to make a strong impression without Foden.
But Foden's fans will be hoping that he can bounce back from this setback and regain his place in the England squad soon.