Manchester City embarked on their sixth and final clash in Group G against Red Star Belgrade tonight – and Kalvin Phillips was given a rare start.
The 28-year-old was thrown into the starting XI in Serbia just days after Pep Guardiola admitted that he struggles to see him carry out his tactical ideas, and even scored from the penalty spot.
Despite Kalvin Phillips receiving a rare chance for Manchester City tonight, it could still be his final start for the treble winners…
Kalvin Phillips tipped for January exit from Manchester City
Well, the England international is unlikely to get another start for Manchester City before the January transfer window comes around – a month in which many expect him to depart.
A story from Calciomercato in Italy claimed that Phillips has already agreed to join Juventus this winter after Massimiliano Allegri promised him a role in the starting XI.
A report from the Daily Star also claimed that Guardiola is happy to let the Manchester City No.4 depart in January.
Phillips rarely starts for Manchester City in the Premier League – making just two league starts since his £45m move from Leeds United in July 2022.
We highly doubt the Leeds-born playmaker will start at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup either, given the fact Manchester City will only play a maximum of two games as they begin in the Semi-Final stage.
Therefore, Rodri is likely to start both – Guardiola has even overlooked Phillips when the Spain international has been absent through suspension this season, so he is clearly low down in the pecking order.
If we’re being speculative, it could also be argued that the Manchester City No.4’s thumbs up and wave to the away end in Serbia tonight after his goal was a goodbye message.
Where Kalvin Phillips could end up
Well – as aforesaid – Phillips has apparently agreed to join Juventus.
However – according to TEAMtalk – Newcastle are keen to sign the £135,000-a-week man, while West Ham and Tottenham are also monitoring the situation.
Be sure to keep an eye on this developing situation, as Phillips is expected to depart the Etihad Stadium.
