Phil Foden toasted “a dream come true” for James McAtee after he scored his first goal for Manchester City in their 4-0 win over Slovan Bratislava.
Foden provided the assist for McAtee’s strike in the second half after the 21-year-old came off the bench.
Boyhood City fan McAtee has spent the last two seasons on loan at Sheffield United but is making his mark for City this term.
"It is a dream come true,” Foden told TNT Sports. “We've worked hard for it. Macca's [James McAtee] had a few loans and is doing really well. He's a talented boy so we're going to need him this season with all the games so he needs to be ready.
"After the draw last time out we had to get the win, our aim is to finish in the top half so we're on the right track now."
McAtee was thrilled with his first goal for the club and is loving playing under Pep Guardiola.
"Buzzing to score, could've had another five minutes after but I'm pleased to get one,” he said. “It's what every kid dreams of, a dream come true.
"It was a tough year last year for me, so it's good to be back and playing under the best manager in the world in my opinion."
Foden was making just his second start of the season for City after being eased back following his exploits with England at Euro 2024.
And the 24-year-old was pleased to score his first goal of the campaign as he gets back to his best.
"I don't think it was easy,” Foden said. “It was tough to break them down and we have to give them respect. The atmosphere was unbelievable. We did the job.
"I had more chances to score and a few of the other lads did too. Delighted with 4-0 but we could've had a few more.
"Nice to be back out there and score. Feeling OK now. Slow start to the season after the Euros but I'm slowly getting there.
“Great result, great atmosphere as well. It’s nice to play in the Champions League again.
"Very happy with the performance, I know there’s still things I can work on and get better, I’m still a little bit rusty. Like I said I’m happy with my performance and the team performance.
"I love it, the atmosphere is very good, it was a great experience."
