In what proved a compelling and hugely entertaining Premier League clash at the Gtech Stadium, City had fallen behind to a Neal Maupay first half strike.
But Foden once again demonstrated his quality and attacking prowess by claiming a brilliant hat-trick – the second of his City career – as the champions made it nine wins on the bounce.
This latest victory lifted City back into second place in the table, just two points behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand.
And as he reflected on the win, Guardiola once again paid handsome tribute to Academy graduate Foden, saying the England star was enjoying the most productive season of his career to date.
“We knew it from the other day. I said a few weeks ago that Phil is having is most influential season in the team in terms of goals and assists,” Guardiola declared.
“This season he’s been so important to us.
“He reads the game really well. How he plays simple and be more aggressive.
“Always he has the pleasure to score goals and the threat in the six-yard box, always he’s there.
“He’s a clever runner and how he runs for the team. He’s an exceptional player.
“At his age playing 250 appearances for City - that means he’s had an influence since he arrived.”
At the age of just 23, Foden has already accumulated a wealth of big game experience both for club and country as well as lifting 16 major trophies.
And for his part, Guardiola is in no doubt Foden’s experience and talent ensure he will prove to be a key leader for City looking to the long-term future.
“He will take over from Kevin and Bernardo in the future - that is going to happen,” Guardiola added.
“It’s a question of process. Every season the experience he gets, he will have to lead for the other ones.
“Still, he is being led but there will be a moment.
“I have to say something that since day one playing on the field, he feels mature and feels ‘I don’t care, I have enough experience and I don’t feel the pressure’.
“A player from the Academy with this level and consistency for many years. I don’t know how many trophies all the ones we won, 15 or 16 at that age.
“As much as he is focused on that he will have a successful and long career, but it depends on him.
“How much he wants to be focused on his job and every detail in his life he can do whatever he wants.”
