Nedum Onuoha, a former Manchester City player, has suggested that the club’s £45 million signing, Kalvin Phillips, should consider leaving in January following Pep Guardiola’s recent comments about him. Guardiola, in a news conference ahead of a Premier League match against Luton Town, apologized to Phillips and admitted difficulty envisioning him in his ideal team.
Onuoha, addressing the issue in a video on ESPN FC’s YouTube page, remarked that despite having control, it seems as if there’s a voice in Guardiola’s head telling him not to play Phillips. He expressed concern about Phillips’ predicament, noting that when every other player in the City squad starts in midfield ahead of him, it signals trouble.
The former City player empathized with Phillips, stating that if he were in Phillips’ shoes and heard someone say they don’t see him in the team, it would sound worse. Onuoha acknowledged Phillips’ professionalism and suggested that the midfielder’s situation is challenging, especially when he’s putting in effort during training but not getting significant game time.
Phillips, signed from Leeds United in 2022 for £45 million, has struggled to secure regular playing opportunities, featuring in 29 games but starting only five. Onuoha highlighted the difficulty Phillips faces in aiming for consistent playing time, especially with his aspirations for a spot in England’s Euro 2016 squad.
Looking ahead to January, Onuoha expressed hope that Phillips could secure a move to reignite his career. He emphasized the importance of Phillips finding a place where he can play regularly. In conclusion, the former City player and analyst, along with Guardiola’s comments, suggest that a move away from Manchester City in the upcoming transfer window might be the best next step for Kalvin Phillips.
