Kalvin Phillips has faced a scarcity of playtime in the Premier League since September, accumulating only 19 minutes on the field, which raises concerns about his preparedness for Euro 2024. His limited involvement at Manchester City, starting only two of ten games this season and six out of thirty-one since his arrival in 2022, hints at a possible departure from the club this month.
Initially signed to challenge Rodri in the midfield, Phillips encountered tough competition as Rodri established himself as one of the premier defensive midfielders globally. Despite Phillips making a recent appearance in the Club World Cup semi-final about a month ago, Pep Guardiola hasn’t ruled out a January exit for the player.
Numerous clubs, including Newcastle, Tottenham, Fulham, and Crystal Palace, have shown interest in Phillips. Newcastle, constrained by Financial Fair Play considerations, might consider a loan, while City could seek a loan fee for the 28-year-old, influencing the decisions of potential suitors.
Phillips himself recognizes the significance of consistent game time for securing his spot in the national team, expressing a keen desire to compete regularly. Guardiola, questioned about a potential transfer in December, remained non-committal, emphasizing that the club holds the final say on Phillips’ future. The uncertainty surrounding Phillips’ status during the transfer window adds an intriguing element to the speculation surrounding his potential departure from Manchester City.