Troy Deeney gives stunning take on insulting chants directed at Phil Foden during Manchester derby

The 2024/25 football season has had its fair share of dramatic moments, but few have sparked as much debate off the pitch as the controversial incident involving Manchester City star Phil Foden during the Manchester Derby. In what was expected to be a fierce yet professional rivalry between two of England’s biggest clubs, an ugly moment involving fan behaviour overshadowed the action on the pitch. And now, former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has weighed in with a candid and somewhat surprising take on the incident.

On Sunday, April 6th, Old Trafford played host to the latest edition of the iconic Manchester Derby — a clash that often brings with it an electric atmosphere, fierce rivalries, and high stakes. However, this time, it wasn’t just the match itself that made headlines. While the 0-0 scoreline suggested a lack of action between Manchester United and Manchester City, the real controversy stemmed from a small group of United supporters who aimed vile chants toward Phil Foden, particularly targeting his mother.

Foden, now 24 years old, was once again a central figure in City’s lineup, but the abuse he faced from the stands was deeply personal and beyond the acceptable boundaries of football banter. The chants, which reportedly surfaced in the first half of the match, quickly drew widespread criticism, including from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola

After the game, Guardiola didn’t hold back when asked about the chants. Speaking to the media, the City boss expressed clear disappointment in the fans responsible, stating

His remarks highlighted not only the cruelty of the chants but also the wider issue of abuse directed at public figures in today’s social climate. Guardiola made it clear that while rivalry is part of the sport, certain lines should never be crossed — and this was one of those moments.

He also went on to defend Foden’s contribution to the team despite his recent dip in form, adding:

Guardiola’s words carried a message of support and reassurance, both for his player and to the wider footballing community, insisting that while criticism comes with the territory, personal abuse is never justifiable.

While most of the football world joined Guardiola in condemning the chants, former Watford captain Troy Deeney offered a different and unexpected perspective on the issue.

Speaking on talkSPORT’s Breakfast Show the following morning, Deeney provided a more nuanced — and some would say, pragmatic — view on the matter. While he acknowledged that such abuse is distasteful and should not happen, he also pointed out that this kind of behaviour, unfortunately, remains a part of the modern football experience.

Deeney, who spent many years in the Premier League and lower divisions, is no stranger to fan abuse. Over the years, he’s been the target of harsh words and cruel chants, and he admits that while they sting, they are not surprising anymore. In his view, football reflects broader societal issues — and many people attending matches see players as easy targets to vent their frustrations.

Despite condemning the specific nature of the chant, Deeney seemed to suggest that incidents like this, sadly, have become part and parcel of professional football.

Deeney also noted that while such abuse is undoubtedly distasteful, it rarely gets highlighted unless a figure of Guardiola’s stature brings it to light. He pointed out that during the match broadcast and post-match coverage, there was little mention of the chants

Deeney then shared an anecdote from his career that illustrated the emotional detachment required of professional players

As the story gained traction, many waited to see whether Phil Foden himself would address the incident publicly. By Sunday night, Foden had posted on social media, but his message was a simple one: three photos from the derby and the words, “We keep going.”

No direct mention of the abuse. No response to the chants. Just a clear, composed, and focused message — one that aligns with his on-field personality: calm, disciplined, and determined.

While the young midfielder hasn’t spoken directly about the chants, sources suggest that he’s been dealing with personal and mental fatigue throughout the 2024/25 season. Reports claim that earlier in the campaign, Foden was struggling with “mental fog” during training sessions — a possible explanation for his below-par performances compared to his explosive 2023/24 season.

In the previous season, Foden was one of the shining stars in the Premier League. His contributions helped City secure another title, with 27 goals and 13 assists across all competitions. He was deservedly named the Premier League Player of the Season, proving his worth as one of England’s brightest talents.

But this season has been different.

With only 10 goals and six assists in 38 matches, Foden has struggled to find the same rhythm. His performances for England have also come under scrutiny, most recently during the 2-0 win over Albania in a World Cup qualifier, where new England manager Thomas Tuchel highlighted the lack of attacking impact from both Foden and Marcus Rashford.

Although the German coach later clarified that he appreciated Foden’s off-the-ball efforts, it’s clear that both club and national team managers are looking for the 24-year-old to rediscover his form.

Amidst all this pressure, the last thing Foden needed was to become the target of abusive chants in one of the biggest fixtures of the season.

The incident involving Foden is not an isolated one. In recent years, many players — including family members — have become targets of abuse, whether in stadiums or online. From racist chants to personal attacks, football continues to battle with a darker side of fandom.

What makes this situation more complex is the contrast in reactions from key figures. On one side, you have Guardiola, representing the emotional and moral compass of modern football — defending his players and calling for respect. On the other, you have Deeney, offering a hardened, veteran view shaped by years of experience and desensitization to such abuse.

Both perspectives have merit. Guardiola is right to demand higher standards from fans, especially when personal and family insults are involved. Meanwhile, Deeney’s words remind us that abuse in football isn’t new, and unfortunately, it often goes unaddressed unless it becomes a headline.

Ultimately, incidents like this call for more than just statements — they require action from clubs, governing bodies, and even fan groups. Stadium bans, targeted education, and campaigns promoting respect have all been tried to varying degrees of success, but consistent enforcement is key.

Manchester United, for their part, have yet to issue a formal apology or identify those responsible for the chants, but many are calling for the club to take a stand.

Phil Foden, meanwhile, continues to focus on his football, refusing to be dragged into the noise. His silence may speak volumes — not as a sign of weakness, but as a mark of professionalism.

The vile chants directed at Phil Foden during the Manchester Derby have once again spotlighted the ongoing issue of abuse in football. While Pep Guardiola’s heartfelt defense of his player earned widespread praise, Troy Deeney’s grounded take opened up a broader conversation about the role of fans, emotion, and societal reflection in the game.

Football may be a passionate sport, but as the sport continues to evolve, so too must the standards of behaviour from those who watch it. Rivalry and banter are part of the game, but targeting someone’s family should never be acceptable — no matter how fierce the competition.

As the season progresses and Foden seeks to rediscover his best form, perhaps the best response he can offer is the one he posted online: “We keep going.”