"New chapter" - Mega-Rich England Legend Stuns Fans by Returning as Coach

The 40-year-old former England fullback and scrum-half retired in 2022 and moved to New York, pursuing a career in property sales. But the Chester-born star has now returned in a dual role at Scarborough RUFC, combining club coaching with involvement in the town’s college rugby programme.

After finishing his playing career in America’s Major League Rugby, Foden stayed in the U.S. and tried life outside sport. But he found the thrill of rugby impossible to replace.

Around the time of his retirement, The Sun (via The Mirror) reported Foden had a net worth of approximately £5.1 million.

“I’d kept my foot in the water in America, doing a bit of coaching with the universities, and I’d always enjoyed doing that far more than any other job that I was doing,” Foden said.

“Now I’m surrounded by rugby again, I’ve got a load of new mates from the club, and to come back and make a career out of it is a bit of a dream.”

Foden enjoyed a decorated career, winning 34 England caps. He started in the Premiership with Sale Sharks, claiming his first title in 2006, before making 250 appearances for Northampton Saints and winning the league again in 2014. He also represented England at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Off the pitch, Foden has had a high-profile life, including a marriage to Saturdays singer Una Healy and appearances on . He now has two children with Jackie Belanoff-Smith.

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Reflecting on his retirement, Foden said: “Rugby has given me so much through my lifetime and given me enough memories to keep me smiling for the rest of my days… To everyone who has been part of this journey with me, thank you for everything! Rugby really is a wonderful game… I promise to always, (wherever possible) give back to the game I loved playing so much.”

With his playing days behind him, Foden is now focused on coaching and developing the next generation at Scarborough RUFC.