Kalvin Phillips has completed a move to West Ham United on loan from Man City until the end of the season, just 18 months after leaving Leeds United – and he’s spoke of that move to City in 2022.
The 28-year-old moved to Pep Guardiola’s side from Leeds in the summer of 2022 – ending his tenure with us. A player that played 234 times for us, coming through the academy. A favourite at Elland Road.
But it has not gone to plan at City. Injury has hampered Phillips’ time at The Etihad, as has the incredible form of possibly the best defensive midfielder in the world – in the form of Rodri. Just six starts for City.
A total of 31 outings in 18 months – but only six starts. Quite remarkable. Now, he’s moved to West Ham on loan from City until the end of 2023-24 – maybe surprisingly, without a permanent option in the deal.
Speaking to West Ham’s podcast Iron Cast on YouTube, the midfielder said that had Manchester City not come in for him while at Leeds in 2022 – he would have joined West Ham. David Moyes is a big fan.
“If City hadn’t come in for me 18 months ago, West Ham would have been the club I would’ve gone to. I think so. Always in the pipeline. Moyesy said he’s been after me for two years. Always going to happen.”
Kalvin Phillips says he would have joined West Ham from Leeds
Obviously, he was never going to turn down the chance to join the Premier League champions – but in hindsight, he might have. It has not worked out for Phillips – even if he does boast a number of medals.
Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup winner. Hopefully now, he can get back to his best and get plenty of game time in before Euro 2024 – and earn his starting spot under Gareth Southgate.
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