The former Blues striker has backed the England international to become “one of the best in the world” if he continues on his normal path.
Phil Foden is the future Ballon d’Or contestant, according to Shaun Goater, who has praised the amazing “Manchester City” star.
Foden has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in English football since graduating to the senior team at the Etihad Stadium in 2017.
The 20-year-old has scored 21 goals in his first 93 appearances for City, with his latest attempt coming in a 3-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Pep Guardiola has been cautious in guiding the development of the midfielder up to this point but is now making a strong argument for being consistent in the starting XI.
Foden became England’s full international earlier in the season, with the first goals for his country coming in a 4-0 victory over Iceland.
Goater believes that the City player can claim the biggest individual award in football if he continues with his normal path.
“The world is at the feet of Phil Foden,” the Blues vice-captain told the EFL ahead of his former club’s League Cup clash with Manchester United on Wednesday.
“I think he can go all the way. I see him standing on the podium and being shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or.
“I know that’s a big thing to say about someone who’s still so young, but he has this quality about him, and what I like about the energy he gives is the risk The regularity that comes with it – whether that ‘s scoring or helping – and as a midfielder these are good qualities.
“He can play anywhere and he will play anywhere. I really see his future as one of the best in the world, it’s amazing for someone so young and I really think in four or five years that he could challenge Ballon d’Or, he has that ability. “
Foden could secure his place in Guardiola’s defensive line when City take on United at Old Trafford in a replay of last year’s semi-final.
Goater added City to the last four of the Carabao Cup for the fourth year in a row: “It’s no surprise to see them in another semi – final.
“Pep Guardiola pays a lot of attention to this competition, he has won three times since being at City and he will want to win it again.
“He’s a league winner, but the game against Manchester United will be very difficult.”
Asked who has the edge to go into the derby position, Goater replied: “Of course with my blue hat, I want City to see the tournament again, but Manchester United are a club that, when in a semi – final, knows how to advance and knows how to win competitions.
“It will be a spicy connection but the outcome of the game I think will depend largely on Guardiola and his tactics.”