Pep Guardiola has openly acknowledged the selection challenge posed by Omar Marmoush and Phil Foden as Manchester City prepare for their final four matches of the season, including the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
Marmoush and Foden have both made impactful appearances off the bench in recent games, forcing Guardiola to consider how to fit them into a starting lineup built around Erling Haaland’s role as the focal point of City’s attack. The situation is a positive one for the manager, who has relied heavily on a consistent core group during a demanding stretch of fixtures since February, rotating only when forced by injuries or fatigue.
City still face Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, and Aston Villa in the Premier League, along with the FA Cup final at Wembley against Chelsea. Guardiola acknowledged that rotation is no longer optional but essential if his side is to maintain intensity through the final two weeks. “I’m going to rotate otherwise we cannot arrive at finals or Bournemouth,” he said, referencing both the FA Cup showdown and the league trip.
Asked specifically about the selection puzzle involving Marmoush and Foden, Guardiola praised the Egyptian international’s efficiency. “Especially Omar — it’s not easy because normally we play with just one striker, a proper striker, and Erling is there,” he said. “Erling is so important for us, but the contribution of Omar always when he plays, the amount of goals, and the rate for minutes played is really good.” Marmoush has consistently produced when called upon, making a strong case for more prominent minutes in the closing stages of the campaign.
For Foden, Guardiola has previously drawn parallels with Bernardo Silva’s difficult third season at the club, insisting the England international will “explode again” once he rediscovers his joy of playing. Guardiola hinted that both players will see increased minutes in the upcoming fixtures. “Top! I know it’s not easy for them, but I’m pretty sure in the next games they’re going to play.”
The schedule demands squad depth, and Guardiola appears ready to use his full roster to navigate the final stretch.