How can Manchester City nullify De Bruyne's absence?

The rise of Phil Foden

One of the features of City's style is to be patient with the possession, circulate the ball so as to move the opposition enough to get the right pass through the lines. This requires immense skill on the ball and mental strength to stay consistent in doing so. Manchester City players also come across some harsh tackles their way. Nothing incites the opposition like being outrun or outplayed for long intervals of time. So, the team is at the risk of injuries constantly.

It was refreshing for City to see Phil Foden perform at a high level. The 18-year-old City academy product performed exceptionally during the pre-season against the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich. He was composed on the ball and was working hard off it.

Phil Foden would like to cement his place in the squad over the next few weeks

With Gundagon likely to replace De Bruyne to a large extent over the next few weeks, Foden would become invaluable for the team. He would be the fresh pair of legs for the outgoing midfielder in a match, would be the much needed reliable cover if any other ball-players go down with injuries. Foden can also be an answer if Fernandinho is down, as Gundagon would play the defensive mid role and Foden would take up the duties going forward with Silva.