Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed regret to midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who is contemplating a January departure from the club despite being part of the treble-winning squad. With just one start this season, the 28-year-old faces the risk of missing out on a spot in the upcoming European Championship. Despite recovering from long-term injuries, Phillips has struggled to secure a regular place in the starting lineup at the Etihad Stadium.
Last season, Phillips featured in only 21 games for the treble winners, accumulating fewer than 600 minutes and making just two Premier League starts. Despite his £42 million move from Leeds United and a six-year contract, he didn’t make his full Premier League debut for Manchester City until a match against Chelsea in May. Despite interest from over 15 European clubs during the summer transfer window, Phillips opted to stay at the Etihad Stadium.
However, the midfielder is now set to leave the triple champions in January, with Juventus, Newcastle, and Tottenham expressing interest in acquiring his services. Guardiola’s apology to Phillips for the limited playing time has cast uncertainty on the midfielder’s future at the club. The manager acknowledged Phillips’ great personality but admitted to difficulties in team selection.
As City Xtra revealed numerous European clubs inquiring about Phillips, the player decided against leaving during the summer transfer window. With the upcoming exit, Phillips is poised to explore new opportunities, with notable clubs like Juventus, Newcastle, and Tottenham reportedly vying for his signature. Guardiola’s apology serves as a reflection of the challenges in managing a star-studded squad, leaving the future of the talented midfielder hanging in the balance.
