Manchester City have been dealt a cruel blow ahead of the 2021/22 campaign, with Phil Foden still wearing a protective boot after suffering an injury at Euro 2020 earlier in the summer.

What's the word?

Foden picked up an injury in training for England during the summer which meant that he missed the final against Italy and it seems clear that he is still recovering, as he was pictured wearing a protective boot on his right foot recently.

Given that City's season kicks off on in less than two weeks when they face Leicester City in the Community Shield, it seems unlikely that he will be back to full fitness before then.

Due to a number of City's players progressing into the latter stages of the European Championships and Copa America, Guardiola looks to have a very disjointed squad at the moment, and after a friendly against Troyes was cancelled, Tuesday night's game against Preston North End is currently the only game the Citizens have planned before that trip to Wembley.

Is this a blow for Guardiola?

Given that Foden was one of City's most impressive performers last season as they tasted success in the Premier League and the Carabao Cup, it is undoubtedly a blow that he could miss the start of the new season.

City face a tough test against Tottenham Hotspur in their opening Premier League fixture, and Guardiola have wanted to have a fully fit squad available to him for the trip to North London.

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Last season saw the 21-year-old academy graduate contribute nine goals and five assists in 28 Premier League appearances, averaging an impressive 7.14 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

He was also key in City's run to the Champions League final, starring in knockout stage wins against Borussia Dortmund and PSG, which solidified his status as a key player in Guardiola's side.

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Therefore, if the "very special" Foden isn't available for the start of the season thanks to the injury he suffered at the Euros, then City fans will be disappointed, as they will undoubtedly have been keen to see him in action when they return to stadiums en masse.

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