Guardiola: No need to sign Silva replacement because we have Foden
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is confident academy graduate Phil Foden - who scored two goals in Monday's 5-0 win over Burnley - has what it takes to replace club legend David Silva next season.
"When David said it was his last year, I told the board we have Phil, so we don't have to invest," Guardiola said, according to BBC Sport.
Foden called his performance at the Etihad his "best game in a City shirt," but Guardiola has long sung the praises of the 20-year-old midfielder. Last year, the Spaniard said Foden "has everything to become one of the best players," adding he's the "most, most, most talented player I have ever seen in my career as a manager."
Minutes have been difficult to come by since Foden made his first-team debut in November 2017. He's made just four starts in the Premier League this season, but Silva's impending departure should allow Foden more playing time.
Silva's contract was set to expire on June 30, but the 34-year-old signed a short-term extension to ensure he sees out the remainder of the 2019-20 campaign. He's spent 10 years at City, helping the club win four Premier League titles and become a European powerhouse.
"It is difficult to find a replacement but (in Foden), we have a young Manchester City fan who every time he plays gives us something unique and special," Guardiola added.
"In the next decade, or 15 years, he will be an outstanding player for us. I don't have doubts."