Phil Foden showed the world once again why he is one of the brightest talents for England, courtesy of Manchester City's 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Having struggled through injuries and off-field struggles the past year, the 25-year-old has recaptured his rhythm and smile just in time to make a push for a return to England's national team. On top of that, does he deserve the recall from Thomas Tuchel?

Foden Rediscovers His Magic at Manchester City

Phil Foden’s Comeback: Manchester City Star Silences Critics With Stunning Phil Foden’s Comeback: Manchester City Star Silences Critics With Stunning
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Last season was one to forget for both Foden and City, as the club failed to win a major trophy for the first time in eight years and he struggled with his form amid personal challenges. But this campaign is a whole different story, according to the BBC.

With four goals and three assists in 13 appearances this time around, the midfielder is firmly re-established as a creative force in Pep Guardiola's new-look side.

Speaking after his two goals against Dortmund, Foden told TNT Sports he's loving what he's doing recently.

"There is a new togetherness this season and you can tell. Dortmund caused us some problems, they are a great team, but we stuck to the plan and broke them down with our talent up front."

Guardiola said that "no one in the world" could deny how talented Foden was. He added that the English footballer has returned to his top form this season despite the recall last month.

Tuchel removed Foden for England's games scheduled on Nov. 13 and 16 against Serbia and Albania, respectively.

Vital Role in City's New Era

While Erling Haaland continues to grab headlines with his extraordinary goal tally, Foden's role behind the Norwegian striker has been crucial. Without Kevin De Bruyne, and with early-season injuries to key attackers, Guardiola has charged Foden with a deeper midfield brief of orchestrating play, a challenge the Englishman has relished.

City have lost only one of their last 13 matches, and Foden has played in almost every single one of them.

Foden's England Redemption Arc

Foden's resurgence has come at the most opportune time with England boss Thomas Tuchel preparing to name his squad for this month's World Cup qualifiers. The Manchester City star has a point to prove after being omitted from recent squads.

But Foden also has Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers as strong contenders for the No. 10 position. And yet, his form in club football, with those 11 goals from outside the box since 2023, demands that he be picked. Guardiola made it clear that Foden "has to push himself to be better and better" to win his place back into the national setup.

Tactical Brilliance-Exploiting Space with Precision

Analysts have pointed out how Foden's intelligence in finding pockets of space has been key to City's fluid attack. Former England midfielder Leon Osman explained that Dortmund "allowed City to pass into the pocket of space in front of their defense, and Foden profited the most."