Phil Foden is set to start for England in the final of Euro 2024, looking to claim one of the few trophies that have alluded him despite still being only 24-years-old.
Coming off his best individual season for his club Manchester City, which resulted in him being named Premier League Player of the Year, Foden came in for major criticism for his performances at the start of the competition.
Like many of his England team-mates, Foden has grown into the tournament in Germany, with his best performance coming in the semi-final win over the Netherlands.
The attacking midfielder will be a key to England’s success in the final on Sunday night and he will take to the field with the No 11 on his back, not his regular No 47 that adorns his City kit.
That has much to do with international rules but Foden still bears the number that holds significance in his life in the form of a tattoo on his neck.
Phil Foden turned in his best performance at Euro 2024 in the semi-final win over the Netherlands
The 24-year-old has his Manchester City squad number tattooed on one side of his neck
On the other he has the phrase ‘Sky is the limit’, a slogan reminding him of his journey from City youngster to England star
The England international’s grandfather, Ronnie, passed away at the age of 47 and Foden has opted to pay tribute to him by wearing the 47 shirt since he broke into Pep Guardiola‘s side.
He’s one of a few young England stars donning previously unseen numbers for England’s biggest clubs.
Trent Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool wears the number 66, while Arsenal’s Declan Rice goes by the number 41.
On the international scene Foden has worn a range of squad numbers. Seven in total. None the 47.
When asked why he didn’t take up the offer to be the club’s new number 10 when Sergio Aguero left in 2022, he said: ‘I’d like to create my own legacy and keep that number.’ But there is another reason for his selection.
In addition to the memento to his late grandfather, Foden also has a tattoo on the other side of his neck, which reads ‘Sky is the limit.’
The slogan is reportedly a reminder to the England star that nothing is impossible after making it through the Man City youth ranks all the way to the pinnacle of world football.
England fans will hope Foden can be a difference-maker in the final for England against Spain
Foden has already claimed six Premier League titles, four League Cups, two FA Cups and the Champions League in his short career. Sunday night provides the chance to write his name in the England history books.
Gareth Southgate’s side go into the Berlin showpiece as underdogs, with Spain impressing throughout their Euro 2024 campaign. Foden is still looking for his first goal in the competition.
Though, he came agonisingly close against the Netherlands with a stunning strike from range that clipped the outside of the post.
