In this rookie report, we’re taking a closer look at one of Manchester City’s brightest talents: Phil Foden. His early cards have become some of the most interesting modern soccer rookies on the market — not because there are thousands of versions, but because the total supply is genuinely limited.

From 2017 Beginnings to 2018 Breakout

Foden’s first cards appear as early as 2017, showing him as a young prospect coming through the City academy.

By 2018, the hobby started paying real attention — especially when Topps released a card in April 2019 celebrating his first Premier League goal. That moment helped push his early cards into the spotlight.

2018-19 The Donruss & Optic Rookie Cards

The biggest focus for Foden rookie collectors is the 2018-19 Donruss and Optic Rated Rookie (#179).

Donruss Press Proof Parallels include:

• Die-Cuts Press Proof /100
• Gold Press Proof /75
• Canvas Press Proof /25
• Gold Die-Cuts Press Proof /19
• Blue Press Proof /5
• Purple Press Proof 1/1

Optic Velocity Parallels include:

• Green Velocity /200
• Aqua /149
• Purple Velocity /125
• Orange /99
• Red Velocity /50
• Black Velocity /25
• Gold /10
• Green /5
• Gold Vinyl 1/1

These are technically his first numbered rookie cards, and they’re straightforward to track — which collectors actually appreciate.

And here’s the key stat that matters:

There are exactly 870 total numbered rookie cards.

870 total. That’s very low for a modern star. Out of those, only two are true 1/1s, making the chase for high-end Foden rookies extremely competitive.

Why Collectors Love Them

Foden’s rookie market feels different from a lot of modern players:

• low total numbered print run
• classic, recognizable rookie designs
• cards tied to key early moments

You’re not drowning in endless variations — instead, you’re chasing cards that actually mean something.

As someone who’s been collecting for over two decades, I look at Foden’s rookies and see real scarcity, especially in the numbered cards. If you believe in his long-term talent, it’s easy to understand why many collectors prefer to hold rather than sell quickly.