According to Rio Ferdinand, Phil Foden is an exceptional player in the UEFA Champions League, while Bukayo Saka still needs to demonstrate further abilities.

Phil Foden’s sensational performance in Manchester City’s UEFA Champions League clash against F.C. Copenhagen has earned him high praise from TNT Sports expert Rio Ferdinand. The former Manchester United defender believes that Foden can now be considered “world class”, thanks to his impressive contributions to the team this season.

Foden’s goal in the second minute of stoppage time sealed a 3-1 victory for Manchester City. Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva had already put City ahead at half-time, but Magnus Mattsson’s stunning strike brought the Danish hosts level. Foden’s late goal ensured City’s triumph.

Speaking after the match, Ferdinand was asked about Foden’s “world class” status. He responded, “You’ve got to look at Foden like he is world class. What he does for the team, he’s important to the team. The assists, goals, with the rhythm of the games, especially this season, he’s got to be in the conversation, or near that at least.”

However, when it comes to Bukayo Saka, Ferdinand believes that the Arsenal winger is not yet at the same level as Foden. He explained, “I don’t think Saka is world class because he hasn’t done it at the top level, winning trophies in a team like this. You’ve got to understand and appreciate that Phil Foden has done this – when the medals are handed out, he’s performed. He’s done that against the best teams as well, consistently.”

Despite this, both Ferdinand and fellow pundit Joleon Lescott agreed that Saka should be England’s starting right-winger at the upcoming European Championships in Germany, with Harry Kane leading the line. The pundits admitted that choosing the left-winger for England was a difficult decision, but Ferdinand leaned towards Marcus Rashford, a choice that Lescott agreed with.

When it comes to the England midfield, both Ferdinand and Lescott were in full agreement. They believe that Gareth Southgate should deploy Foden as the number 10, with Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice playing behind him in a double pivot.

Overall, Foden’s outstanding performances have earned him recognition as a “world class” player, while Saka is still seen as having potential to reach that level. With the European Championships approaching, England’s lineup is still up for debate, but Foden’s role in the midfield seems to be set in stone according to Ferdinand and Lescott.