Kalvin Phillips has told the Official Manchester City podcast that he is struggling for confidence with the Premier League champions, and the knowledge he will not play – which he did not worry about at Leeds.
Phillips, 27, has struggled since his move to The Etihad. Indeed, the 28-time England star has only been used 26 times by Pep Guardiola. On Sunday against Arsenal, Phillips remained an unused substitute.
It has been a drastic change. A regular for Leeds during the Marcelo Bielsa years and then, under Jesse Marsch when fit – he joined City at the height of his game having starred for England during Euro 2021.
But a combination of injuries, Rodri’s incredible form and a lack of trust from Pep Guardiola has seen Phillips’ career falter. He spoke openly on the City podcast, saying a lack of confidence is affecting him.
“Confidence is massive. I never thought confidence would be a problem, because I was playing at Leeds every single week. Even when I come back from injury I always knew there was a chance I would play.
“It’s not necessarily the case here. You have to be in 100% physical shape to play. Even if you are, there’s other players that might have trained better. This last year or so, my confidence hasn’t been the best.”
Kalvin Phillips says confidence affecting him at Manchester City
Hardly a surprise. Phillips would have joined City right at the top of his confidence levels but injury will have brought him straight back down to earth. He needs a move. A Premier League club in Europe.
iNews say Everton and Newcastle are interested, while Football Transfers claim in-form Tottenham would like him in North London. In January, it is likely that Phillips will be on the move, out of the Etihad.
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