Phil Foden was observed shopping in Manchester with his girlfriend, Rebecca Cooke, shortly after learning of his omission from England's World Cup team. The Manchester City footballer, 26, was seen at the designer clothing store Norton Barrie. He wore a blue Nike tracksuit and pink Nike shoes.
Foden has been absent from manager Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad, a decision that followed what was described as an underwhelming domestic campaign. He recorded 10 goals and seven assists for Manchester City, but the manager opted for other midfielders, including Morgan Rogers, Jude Bellingham, and Eberechi Eze.
Foden has previously attributed his fluctuating form this season to "mental fatigue." He stated earlier this season, "I just need a few weeks off it without playing football and obviously I can't get it at the moment." Despite his personal disappointment, Foden expressed his intent to follow the tournament, saying, "I'm looking forward to it. Obviously I'm going to watch England. I hope they do well, I'm rooting for them. I believe they can win it."
Nico O'Reilly, a Manchester City teammate and fellow England squad member, commented on Foden's reaction to the news. "I spoke to Phil and he's gutted," O'Reilly told reporters. "It's unfortunate for them not to make the squad and they'll be gutted but now is the time to rest and be ready for next season."
Foden and Cooke have been together since they were teenagers and have three children: Ronnie, born in 2019, True, born in 2021, and a second son born in June 2024. The couple has been the subject of engagement rumors, particularly after Cooke was seen wearing a large diamond ring last year, which was reportedly given to her during a New Year's Eve trip to Paris.