Inside Phil Foden's suffering with Man City and England star's family targeted by nasty trolls online

It is, unfortunately, just the latest example of Foden being targeted by fans.

The City star has often sparkled at club level, winning six Premier League titles during his time at the Etihad Stadium. He also played a key role in their treble-winning 2022/23 season and has also been involved in England squads for major tournaments, too.

But the perils of success mean having a target on your back. Fans, when it comes to Foden, have crossed the line.

Rebecca Cooke, the mother of the City star's three children and fiancee, has been left devastated by the sick trolls' inaccurate claims.

One post on Facebook said that the couple's eldest son, Ronnie, had died at the age of six.

Another troll disturbingly created a false post from Foden that his daughter, True, had cancer.

Rebecca wrote: “We are aware of the pages and accounts spreading these stories. They are completely false and very disturbing.

“I don’t understand how people can make up these things about anyone, especially children. It’s sickening.

“We are all absolutely fine thank god & thank you for all your concerns we are doing everything we can to stop them.”

“Please report any posts or pages you come across sharing these false stories.”

This time, it was Foden's children targeted.

But his family have been in the past with his mother, Claire Rowlands, previously the subject of vile chants from supporters.

During a Manchester derby match in April this year, Manchester United fans chanted that Rowlands was a 's**g'. That sparked huge controversy, with City boss Pep Guardiola condemning their actions by saying: "[It's a] lack of class. But it's not United, it's the people, you know?

"We are so exposed, people who are on the screen in world football - managers, owners, and football players especially.

"Honestly, I don't understand the mind of the people involving the mum of Phil. It's a lack of integrity, class, and they should be ashamed."

Foden's grandmother, Mary Keates, also spoke out.

“It really upset me and the whole of the family, it’s disgusting," she said.

“It really hurt to hear what was being shouted by the fans about Claire.

“These people need to have a good look at themselves. Claire is a wonderful woman and mother.

“I don’t want to say too much because it makes me so angry and makes me feel sick.”

Foden himself has never commented on the chants.

However, now, he's taking legal action to ensure those who went after his two children face the consequences.

On the pitch, Foden has made 11 appearances for City so far this season, scoring twice.

He'll be hoping to feature in their Premier League match against Bournemouth on Sunday (4.30pm).