Phil Foden has paid tribute to Ricky Hatton and says that the boxer’s tragic death provided Manchester City with “extra motivation” against Manchester United. The life of the former world champion, a devoted City supporter, was celebrated with an emotional minute’s applause at the Etihad before the Manchester derby kicked off. City fans also sang Hatton’s name throughout the match.
Foden, who is also a lifelong City fan, scored the opening goal before Erling Haaland netted twice, helping them to easily defeat Manchester United. And Foden told Sky Sports post-match: “100 per cent I had extra motivation going into the game, it was for him and his family and for the people suffering right now. The lads gave everything. It wasn’t a pretty match but it was all for him.”
He added to BBC Radio 5 Live: “I was lucky to meet him a couple of times. When you meet people for the first time, you never forget how they were on the first time. Lovely guy and a massive City fan – I made sure I tried my best for him. I wanted to get the win for him and his family. Devastating news.”
City manager Pep Guardiola commented: “I have been here 10 years and I don’t remember one so intense like today. Thank you so much to Manchester United fans. I know he was a world champion in boxing.
“There are no words that can contain the pain that the family can feel right now. We are close and I know how incredible he was as a Manchester City fan. He could live the good moments and the bad moments. The moment of silence was unbelievable, I will always remember it. A massive, massive City fan.”
Foden also celebrated his goal with heightened passion as he ran towards the fans, admitting that he struggled to meet his own standards last season and the criticism has affected him.
England forward Foden, who was City’s standout performer during their most recent title-winning campaign in 2024, commented: “There has been a lot of talk. Everything has been quite negative but that’s the world that we live in when you are playing at the highest level.
“When you come off winning the player of the season award the standards are higher and I understand that. It’s about reading those comments, reacting as well as possible and getting back to my level.”
City released an official club statement offering their sympathies to Hatton’s family, which read: “Ricky was one of City’s most loved and revered supporters, who will always be remembered for a glittering boxing career that saw him win world titles at welterweight and light-welterweight.
“Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Ex-City skipper Vincent Kompany shared an image on X featuring himself, Liam Gallagher and Hatton, accompanied by the message: “We’ll miss you Ricky. Our thoughts are with the family and friends. Rest in piece legend.”