Manchester City Struggles in FA Cup Win Over Salford

Phil Foden's continued poor form raises questions about his role as a first-choice player.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Manchester City narrowly defeated League Two side Salford City in the FA Cup, with new signings Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo coming off the bench to help secure the victory. The performance raised concerns about the form of England international Phil Foden, who has struggled to maintain his place in the starting lineup.

Why it matters

Manchester City's ability to win trophies, especially the FA Cup, is an important measure of their success. Foden's continued struggles could impact the team's depth and rotational options, especially as they compete on multiple fronts this season.

The details

Despite the victory, Manchester City's performance against the lower-league opposition was labored, with Foden failing to make a significant impact. The team required substitutions from new signings Guehi and Semenyo to help secure the win, raising questions about Foden's role and future in the starting lineup.

  • The match took place on February 14, 2026.

The players

Phil Foden

An England international midfielder who has struggled to maintain his place in the Manchester City starting lineup.

Marc Guehi

A new signing for Manchester City who came off the bench to help secure the victory over Salford.

Antoine Semenyo

Another new signing for Manchester City who was brought on as a substitute to help the team win the FA Cup match.

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What they’re saying

“It's just as well Manchester City once again spent big during the January transfer window, as Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo were needed off the bench to help Pep Guardiola's men.”

— Mark Doyle, Yahoo Daily News Writer (Yahoo Daily News)

The takeaway

Manchester City's reliance on new signings to secure the victory over lower-league opposition raises questions about the team's depth and the continued struggles of key players like Phil Foden. The performance highlights the challenges the team faces in maintaining their dominance, even in cup competitions.