The 24-year-old Manchester City forward admitted the strain of such a demanding schedule left him feeling mentally drained, marking the first time he has been so candid about the issue.

Earlier in the campaign, Foden had hinted at the possibility of burnout, but only now has he fully acknowledged the impact it had on both his physical and mental well-being.

Despite his exhaustion, Foden's season ended on a high as he secured his sixth Premier League title with Manchester City.

Additionally, he played an instrumental role in helping England reach the final of Euro 2024, further adding to his already impressive achievements.

"When you add up all the games and all the travelling it is a lot for the body," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I just wasn't feeling 100 per cent when I was training, and then there were a few niggles. I was getting frustrated a lot because I enjoy my football and want to be out there and when things are not helping you to be 100 per cent it's really difficult to accept that.

"For me, football is played with the brain and when the brain is mentally fatigued you're not going to see a player for who he is. I'm normally itching to get back but when I came back my body and my mental state was low.

"My body just didn't feel how I was used to and it's something that I've had to deal with. I feel that's the reason why I had a slow start to the season."

Foden's openness about his struggles highlights the intense pressure faced by top-level athletes, balancing the demands of club and international football.

READ MORE: Eric Dier's Bayern Munich future uncertain as focus shifts to season success

Teams	M	W	L	D	PTS
Canterbury	7	4	1	2	91
Otago	7	3	1	3	83
Northern Knights	7	3	3	1	76
Central Districts	7	3	1	2	70
Auckland	6	2	3	1	60
Wellington	6	0	5	1	31

1st Session - Day 1 Plunket Shield