The England international put up another majestic performance against Dean Smith’s men at the Villa Park. He scored his side’s opener to help put the Citizens on the cusp of their third Premier League title in four seasons.
Foden has forced his way into Guardiola’s regular lineup and the Spanish coach insists the 20-year-old is becoming a ‘serious’ player at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City went down in the opening minute courtesy of a John McGinn effort and it was Foden who pulled parity on the 22nd minute when he received a cutback pass from Bernardo Silva.
The visitors went on to win the game thanks to Rodri’s strike on the cusp of halftime and Guardiola hailed the Manchester City academy graduate for his output against the Villans.
"This guy [Foden] is growing," the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich head coach said to Sky Sports. "His influence in our games is massive. He's becoming a serious player. Phil right now is becoming such an important player. His influence in the final third is so important."
Guardiola then reflected on his side’s win against Aston Villa, he added: "We played so good. After 10 against 11 and after Matty Cash was sent off, it was a really good performance. The Premier League is the most important title to win.
"We controlled the game when it was 10 against 10. It was late [John Stones' challenge] but the intention was no. Now because we have won I am happy. If we had lost I'd be unhappy.
Foden is up to seven goals and five assists in 25 Premier League appearances for Manchester City so far this season.
