Thomas Frank believes that Phil Foden has the potential to become the first English player to win the Ballon d’Or in many years.

Phil Foden, the rising star of Manchester City, is being hailed as the English player most likely to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, according to Brentford manager Thomas Frank. Foden’s exceptional performances this season, including a hat-trick against Frank’s team in February, have caught the attention of many in the football world.

Ahead of their rematch at the Etihad Stadium, Frank expressed his admiration for the 23-year-old midfielder, stating, “Phil Foden is a very good player. For me, he’s the closest England get to a Ballon d’Or winner in the future. I think he has that potential, that level.” Frank’s praise highlights the immense talent and potential that Foden possesses.

Foden played a crucial role in City’s historic treble-winning campaign last season, where they clinched the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League titles. This season, he has continued to impress, contributing 15 goals and 10 assists in 37 appearances across all competitions. In their previous Champions League encounter against Copenhagen, Foden scored one goal and provided an assist, helping City secure a 3-1 victory.

Frank emphasized Foden’s versatility and impact on the game, stating, “He influences the game in so many ways. The last game he got on the end of three situations and scored three goals. He is very good at dribbling, very good at sliding people in. He works very hard and seems to have a good mentality in terms of working hard.”

The Ballon d’Or, an annual award voted for by national team captains and coaches, has not been won by an English player since Michael Owen in 2001. Frank Lampard came closest in 2005, finishing second, while Jude Bellingham was the highest-ranked English player in 18th place last year. Foden’s consistent performances have seen him break into the top 30 twice, finishing 22nd in 2022 and 25th in 2021.

As City prepares to face Brentford, Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, identified Ivan Toney as the biggest threat to his side. Guardiola praised Toney’s ability to use his body for the second ball and his finishing skills, highlighting him as one of the best in that aspect. Guardiola acknowledged the danger Toney poses, particularly recalling a goal they conceded to him in a previous encounter.

City’s upcoming match against Brentford provides them with an opportunity to climb to second place in the Premier League standings, just one point behind leaders Liverpool. With Foden’s exceptional form and the team’s determination, City will be aiming for another victory to strengthen their title challenge.