'I think you need to relax' — Foden reacts to criticism from Guardiola

Despite scoring in the victory against Crystal Palace to extend his streak to four matches, Phil Foden agreed with Pep Guardiola’s assessment that he had a poor game, noting the aspects he must improve. 

The 25-year-old scored the second goal in Manchester City's morale-boosting 3–0 win against the Eagles. He also won the penalty, which Haaland converted late in the game to make it three. 

Despite the match-winning direct contributions, Guardiola argued that Foden’s overall performance was below par.

“I know people maybe think differently, but today Phil [Foden] was not good. He didn’t play his best,” Pep said. “He lost a lot of balls. He was rushing decisions, was so anxious. 

“He just has to play, keep the ball, and at the right moment make this explosion that only he has, in terms of goals and assists. But before he arrives there he has to be more calm. It’s because he wants to do well, wants to help; he [sometimes] makes these situation not clear.”

Foden took the criticism gracefully. His post-match comments were self-critical, as he agreed with Pep that he was anxious in his play. He added that he will continue to improve. 

"I agree! In the first half I gave a lot of balls away, the second as well. I was trying to do too much, and against a team like Crystal Palace, I think you need to relax a bit more and play extra passes,” he said, according to City Report. 

"It's a good thing he said that, because I agree. I knew I could've done a lot better, but that's the standard I set myself, so does he. He knows there's more to come from me and hopefully I can get there.”