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Phil Foden has been advised that a transfer to Aston Villa might be just what he needs to reignite his career, which has stalled at Manchester City. Former striker Tony Cascarino shared with GOAL that the England international could benefit greatly from a new challenge, especially as Villa may be on the lookout for another creative player amid ongoing speculation around Morgan Rogers' future in the West Midlands.

Reports suggest that Villa star Morgan Rogers carries a £130 million ($172m) valuation, and if the 22-year-old were to leave Villa Park, the club would gain a huge financial boost. Manager Unai Emery and his staff could then reinvest those funds into finding a suitable replacement who can add vision and flair to the squad’s attacking play.

While Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and Financial Fair Play (FFP) considerations would need to be taken into account, Villa would still have the resources to target a top-quality creative signing should Rogers depart.

Phil Foden, who missed out on selection for England’s World Cup squad, could emerge as an option for Villa. Although the 26-year-old would find it emotionally difficult to part ways with City after spending his entire professional career there, his progress has slowed in recent seasons. Despite scoring 10 goals during the 2025-26 campaign, the playmaker was left out of Gareth Southgate’s plans for the World Cup, with many suggesting that a change of environment could help him rediscover his best form.

When asked whether a move to Aston Villa could benefit all parties involved, Cascarino said on behalf of Tonybet’s World Cup Card Collection campaign, which offers Canadian fans a chance to win up to $150,000 CAD: “It would be a great move if it’s one that reignites Phil Foden’s spark.”

He added: “Sometimes in your career, you need something that gives you that lift. You think, ‘Right, I’m going to play regular first-team football now.’ I don’t think Phil wants to just be a squad player or a substitute. That’s how he began at City – as a youngster learning his trade, gradually convincing the manager he could start games regularly. But things have gone the opposite way for him recently.”

Cascarino continued: “A new manager has come in, and that might change things. But at his age, and considering what he’s already achieved, if Phil Foden got the chance to play for a big club like Villa and regain that motivation to prove people wrong, it could be exactly what he needs. Look at his last year and a half – City have continued to win trophies, but Phil has lost his place and even missed out on the England squad. He has to make a move to turn that around.”

Foden now faces crucial career decisions, with only 12 months remaining on his current Manchester City contract. It is reported that new terms have been agreed, extending his stay until 2030. However, the extension could also serve to maintain his market value, as City, now entering the post-Pep Guardiola era under new manager Enzo Maresca, may be open to offers for their home-grown star. Foden has already won six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown, but his next step could define the next phase of his career.