Man City have a player who can give Phil Foden what he desperately needs

Phil Foden has not registered a goal or an assist since the victory over Crystal Palace in mid-December

"I have said many times, I have zero, zero, zero doubts, zero about Phil [Foden]," Pep Guardiola said in February after Manchester City's academy graduate's form was brought into question. Last season was tough for the attacking midfielder. The constant games for City and then England at Euro 2024 took its toll and he looked spent.

This season was expected to be Foden's redemption campaign. Another summer tournament did not help but the Club World Cup was played with less intensity. Barring a goal against Manchester United, Foden's Premier League campaign was slow until he went on a superb run of form in November and December.

He scored six goals and bagged an assist in just four Premier League games to suggest the Foden of old had returned. But his goal against Crystal Palace in mid-December was his most recent in all competitions for the Blues. Sadly, the attacking midfielder seems stuck in a rut.

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Guardiola suggested Foden needed to take himself away from football for a bit and fully recover. "He has to recover himself good and just focus on playing football and going to fish," the City boss said. "He loves fishing and that's it."

It's not every day a Premier League manager encourages his player to pick up a fishing rod, but the reasoning was sound. Foden needs a reset and what better way to do it than by spending time doing something he loves.

If that is what the England international must do away from the pitch to help himself, City discovered a way they can help him on it this weekend. Like Foden, Savinho has had a season to forget too.

Injuries at the start of the season and on New Year's Day have disrupted the Brazil international's momentum. But on Saturday night at Newcastle, Savinho gave a performance to be proud of. He showcased blistering pace, brilliant crossing ability and deservedly scored a fortunate equaliser to change the momentum of the match.

His display left teammate John Stones in awe. "How direct he was, his pace to touch it past you and get to full speed is incredible," the defender said post-match.

"He kept going, crosses, the chances and I’m so pleased for him. It’s difficult coming back from injury, he came on in the last game (against Nottingham Forest) and made an impact, and the same again today."

Savinho's return to form is not only ideal for City but also Foden. Should he remain fit, Savinho will be able to take some of the responsibility off Foden's shoulders. That should allow Foden to refresh and come back in a position to help City again.

There is an argument that Foden missing out on the World Cup squad would be ideal for City. If any player needs a full summer break, it is him.

Being snubbed could also light a fire underneath Foden to bounce back stronger. Of course, if his form improves, Thomas Tuchel will undoubtedly pick him.

In the short term, City can allow Savinho to take the strain. If he can replicate that performance consistently, Guardiola can give Foden what he needs.