Phil Foden’s Iconic No.47 Shirt: The Heartfelt Reason Behind His Unconventional Choice
Phil Foden may be a superstar at Manchester City, but his shirt number remains as unique as his talents. The midfielder, who clinched the PFA Players’ Player of the Year last season, continues to wear the now-iconic No.47—a number that has become one of the most recognizable in the Premier League.
Foden enjoyed a remarkable 2023/24 season, recording his best-ever goal tally in the Premier League and playing a pivotal role in City’s quest for a fifth consecutive top-flight title. Yet, while attacking midfielders often choose the prestigious No.10, Jack Grealish claimed that number when he made the move from Aston Villa to Man City in 2021.
So why does Foden wear the No.47 shirt? The answer is deeply personal and incredibly heartwarming.
Why does Foden wear number 47?
No.47 was Foden’s first shirt number at Manchester City, a number he has worn since making his debut for the club in 2017. The reason he continues to wear it is a tribute to his late grandfather, Ronnie, who passed away at the age of 47. The England international uses the number as a constant homage to the man who was a lifelong City fan and who would be immensely proud of his grandson’s incredible rise to stardom.
In addition to his shirt number, Foden also has a tattoo of the number 47 behind his right ear, symbolizing the deep connection he has to the memory of his grandfather.
Despite the opportunity to change his number, Foden chose to keep the No.47 shirt. When Sergio Agüero announced his departure from City in 2021, he offered Foden his legendary No.10 shirt. However, Foden turned it down, preferring to stay loyal to the number that holds so much significance for him.
Speaking about Agüero’s offer in 2022, Foden said: “I did think about it. The No.10 shirt is such a big number in the club, but I just have a thing with 47. I’d like to create my own legacy and keep that number.”
Foden’s Growing Legacy at Manchester City
Foden is well on his way to creating a legacy of his own at Manchester City. Over the past seasons, he has become an integral part of Pep Guardiola’s system, scoring over 50 Premier League goals and establishing himself as a constant threat for the reigning champions.
After a slow start to the 2024/25 season due to injuries and illness, Foden is back to his best, and he is once again showcasing his immense talent. A fifth straight title would mark a historic achievement for both City and Foden—and to accomplish that wearing the No.47 shirt would make the triumph even more meaningful for the 24-year-old.
