Christmas is still a few weeks away.
But Pep Guardiola believes he has his perfect present already in the shape of a rejuvenated Phil Foden, someone he has described as a “gift”.
Foden rode to the rescue with the winner in a 3-2 thriller against Leeds, just as Manchester City threatened to unravel in a crazy game.
Guardiola’s men cruised into a two-goal lead thanks to strikes from Foden and Josh Gvardiol, only to allow United back into the contest.
Sub Dominic Calvert-Lewin pulled one back, before winning the penalty that allowed Lukas Nmecha to equalise.
City looked like dropping two huge points, until Foden pounced in stoppage time.
Last season proved miserable for Foden, which might explain Guardiola’s joy at having one of his most influential players somewhere close to being back to his best.
> This season has been the Phil we met a long, long time ago – the impact of that guy when he arrived at 16, 17 years old in the training sessions.
>
> Oh my God, what a player. It’s a joy, pleasure, it’s a gift to have him and he’s happy in his life. It’s an incredible pleasure to be his manager because he is open to improve and has the mentality and composure to say ‘I’m going to win the game’.