Pep Guardiola made it known to the press and fans that Kalvin Phillips is no longer apart of his plans for the club going forward.
What did Guardiola say?
Ahead of Manchester City’s trip to Luton, Guardiola was asked about Phillips; who he left out of the squad that played Aston Villa despite Rodri serving a suspension.
Guardiola replied: “I don’t know what’s going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I’ve said that many times.
“He doesn’t deserve what has happened to him and I’m so sorry.
“The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn’t do that.
“It’s just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things – and I struggle to see him.
“I’m not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional.
“But if one guy behaves [poorly], I don’t care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that’s why hopefully it can turn around.
“And I’ve said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I’m more than pleased because he trains really good and he’s a lovely guy and character.”
Guardiola doesn’t make too many mistakes but t seems as though this purchase was a mistake as Phillips has wasted a year of his career trying to impress Guardiola.
Phillips Manchester City stats
Phillips joined Manchester City from Leeds United in the summer of 2022. Since then he has only made five starts for the club.
Phillips has struggled to make an impression on Guardiola and adapt to his style of play.
He’s only made one start this season and that was in the Carabao Cup where Manchester City were knocked out 1-0 to Newcastle.
It is likely that the Englishman will leave in January with many clubs after him.
Who will buy Phillips?
Juventus is the latest side who have been looking at Phillips for a potential January swoop. Premier League sides; Newcastle, Tottenham, West Ham and Liverpool have also been linked with Phillips.
Before signing for Manchester City, Phillips was a regular starter for Leeds and he impressed a number of clubs with his strong midfield presence.
Phillips was also a key player in England’s 2020 Euro run that saw them make it all the way to the final. Phillips had a great partnership with Declan Rice as the two produced solid work.
Gareth Southgate does still pick Phillips in his squad despite hardly having any minutes for City. Phillips isn’t a regular starter in the England team anymore as players like Rice, Jude Bellingham and Jordan Henderson usually get the nod ahead of him but he’s always on the bench if the manager needs him.
A January move could be what Phillips needs ahead of another Euro tournament in June.
Where Can I Watch Luton V Manchester City?
Luton V Manchester City will be broadcasted on Sky Sports Premier League. The match is on Sunday 10th December with a 2pm kick-off.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
