The Academy graduate grew up in a divided household in Stockport, where he followed in his mum’s footsteps as a City fan, whilst his brother and dad favoured the Reds.
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It means Manchester derbies have always been lively occasions in the family home, though that’s changed somewhat since the young midfielder broke into Pep Guardiola’s first team squad.
The same can be said for his dad’s derby day loyalties, with Phil Snr’s love for his son meaning his love for United is put on hold a couple of times a season.
“Derbies used to be crazy because our family is split between City and United,” said the younger Foden.
“It used to be crazy watching it. There were a lot of scenes.
“My brother’s a United fan, so he’d wear his United top and I’d wear a City one and when someone scored we’d give each other banter.
“I don’t really get that as much now, because I’m always going to be at the game. Even if I’m not playing I’ll be there watching, so I won’t see them.
“My dad’s a United fan and he comes and watches, and I ask him who he’ll support and he says City, just for that day. I’m changing him slowly!”
A boyhood fan who rose through the Academy ranks, Foden is ingrained in the Club and, as one himself, knows just how important the derby is to supporters.
Whilst City go into the game 11 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool and United are a further 11 points behind in sixth position, Foden believes the 179th meeting of the two teams can be season defining in the battle to win the Premier League title he has not given up on.
“United it always a massive game that you want to win,” he added.
“For the fans it is so important, with Liverpool as well. They’re contenders for the league every year.
“We definitely need to win these games if we want to win the title. They’re the main games we need to win and they’re the biggest games.”
