- Manchester City and England midfielder Kalvin Phillips might leave the club in the summer transfer window
- Phillips has struggled for playtime since joining Manchester City last summer from Leeds United
- Injuries have also contributed to his sidelines at the Etihad Stadium
Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is preparing to quit the club less than a year after joining from Leeds for £42 million.
Phillips had established himself as one of the Premier League’s best defensive midfielders and was a starter for England at Euro 2020, winning the Three Lions’ player of the year award in 2021.
It cleared the way for him to join Pep Guardiola’s City, but the 27-year-old has spent a significant amount of time injured or on the bench. He has only played 56 minutes of Premier League action, and his only appearances have come in cup games against Bristol City and Southampton.
Phillips retained his spot in England’s 2022 World Cup squad and appeared twice as a substitute. When he returned to Manchester, Guardiola stated that he was “not injured,” but had “arrived overweight” and was not “in the condition to do training sessions and play” for City.
Guardiola has repeatedly stated in recent months that City ‘needs’ Phillips and has urged him to rise to the challenge of competing for a spot in the squad with Rodri.
Kalvin Phillips has been struggling between injuries and a limited amount of minutes at Manchester City since joining from Leeds United. | PHOTO: Independent |
Phillips, however, is still struggling to get a serious look as of late March. His most recent appearance came against RB Leipzig when City were already 6-0 up, and he also came off the bench last season when the club was 4-0 up against Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Phillips has been an unused substitute in recent games against Newcastle and Crystal Palace, which have been much tighter.
Which clubs can Kalvin Phillips join?
That lack of playing time may play a role in his destiny. SportsLeo understands that Phillips is concerned about the potential effect on his England prospects and that a repeat of this season could jeopardize his chances of attending Euro 2024 next year.
During the January transfer window, former side Leeds made an offer to re-sign him, while West Ham also made an unsuccessful winter approach. Newcastle, Leicester, and Wolves are also said to be keen and would be in the running if he became available.
SportsLeo understands that Manchester City will not stand in the way of the player’s desire to depart. As it appears doubtful that they will recoup their £42 million outlay, the reigning Premier League champions may sanction an initial loan with a view to a permanent deal.
Phillips’ high salary could also be an impediment.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login