Former footballer Gabriel Agbonlahor has advised Kalvin Phillips to leave Manchester City and join Newcastle United in the upcoming January transfer window. Agbonlahor emphasized that Phillips, aged 27, should be playing the best football of his career and that his limited playing time at City, having featured only 16 times, is insufficient. The sports commentator criticized Pep Guardiola for not trusting Phillips, citing the preference for Rodri even after the English player’s ban earlier in the season.
Agbonlahor stressed the importance of Phillips finding regular playing time, asserting that his current situation at City could jeopardize his spot with the England national team. He urged Phillips to make the move to Newcastle, stating that he would seamlessly fit into their defense and midfield, especially after the loss of Tonali.
Despite Phillips’ efforts to fight for his place at City over the summer, it has become evident that he won’t see more playing time than Rodri. Agbonlahor argued that a transfer is crucial for Phillips’s future, especially with Euro 2024 on the horizon. Gareth Southgate’s limited use of Phillips during the international break raised concerns about his standing with the national team.
The sports commentator concluded by referencing journalist Fabrizio Romano’s suggestion that Phillips is likely to leave City in January. The hope is that Phillips finds a new club where he can secure regular playing time and continue his football career.
