This season, some of the biggest names in the game have faced staggering struggles in the EPL. For one reason or another, their performances have disappointed. Phil Foden, Rasmus Højlund, Raheem Sterling, Jan Bednarek, Son Heung-min, and Odsonne Édouard have been among the biggest disappointments this season. Their respective struggles have made for an unusual and tumultuous campaign for both players and their respective squads.
Phil Foden enjoyed a breakout summer, playing a key role in guiding the Three Lions to the Euro 2020 final. Now, he’s fighting for his life to recapture that form at Manchester City. His despondent expression was remarkably visible at last week’s disappointing Manchester derby at Old Trafford. The fact that he was substituted only stressed his ongoing issues. The young talent’s relatively new loan spell at Ipswich has already seen him weather some harsh storms. To be replaced by Christian Walton, then Alex Palmer, has really rocked his confidence.
Phil Foden’s Fall from Grace
Foden’s incredible path would lead you to believe he is now one of the shining lights of the burgeoning English football golden generation. After some panicked outbursts over recent weeks were directed at his dwindling future, he used to be lauded as the most imaginative playmaker in the game. Now, he seems lost on the field as he can’t find his old impact. His self-esteem has taken a big blow after being pushed to the fringe at City. Now, he can’t find a way to be dominant.
The influence of his follies goes way beyond the level of the club. As Foden continues to work through this trying phase of his career, concerns loom about his ability to return to the national team setup. Indeed, his recent and disappointing rejection has raised eyebrows and alarmed fans and pundits. They question his fitness for future international duties because of his recent dip in form.
Challenges for Rasmus Højlund and Raheem Sterling
It’s been a rocky first campaign for Rasmus Højlund at Manchester United. He has had a hard time developing chemistry with his new teammates. After all, Højlund has scored just three goals in 27 total Premier League appearances so far. Instead, he frequently ends up isolated on the pitch, receiving minimal help from his fellow attackers. Arguably, this lack of support has made it impossible for him to truly change the course of history.
Raheem Sterling’s spell at Arsenal has been rather unproductive. The loan player has quickly become a fan favorite with 13 facile appearances this season. He hasn’t even scored a goal yet, having only provided two assists. His role as a bit-part player raises major question marks going forward. Is he capable of finding that old form and again being an impact player with a major role? Sterling’s struggles may mirror a broader downturn within Manchester City’s ranks, as he has not made a notable impact during his national team appearances either.
Defensive Woes and Mixed Fortunes
Jan Bednarek’s situation at Southampton has been just as bleak. His defender, however, has hardly shined, allowing an alarmingly high 77 goals in just 32 matches contributing to the team’s relegation. These numbers paint a picture of a defense that folds the tent at the first sign of adversity. Ultimately, this has led to some disheartening results for the club.
For comparison, Son Heung-min has been one of the most loyal servents to a club in Tottenham Hotspur during the past 10 years. Since Harry Kane left for Bayern Munich, Son’s ability to impact games has faded dramatically. Now he trades one set of benches for another. He finds it hard to adjust to life as the guy who used to have the most important connection of all—spiking his numbers.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has developed into a spark plug for Crystal Palace, as Odsonne Édouard has hit a bit of a wall. Édouard had to wait until February 25 for his first league goal in Palace colors. That disappointment was soon compounded earlier this month, when he was given his marching orders just ten minutes after being introduced as a sub against Brighton & Hove Albion.
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