As Manchester City ready themselves to face Aston Villa, Pep Guardiola has said that Kalvin Phillips has a chance of starting on Wednesday.
The Catalan tactician made this revelation about the £45 million (Sky Sports) man in his latest press conference, as quoted by City’s official Twitter page.
With Kalvin Phillips linked with an exit from the Etihad Stadium for a while, Rodri’s suspension may have handed him a chance to make a rare start.
Pep Guardiola says Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips could start against Aston Villa
It was reported on Sunday that the treble-winners could let Newcastle United sign the 28-year-old on loan in January, provided there is an option in the deal for them to wrap up a move for him permanently.
In October, the former Leeds United hero admitted that he wishes to play more regularly, especially with the objective of making the cut for England’s squad for Euro 2024.
Pep Guardiola has said that Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips could be in line to start from the off against Aston Villa.
“There’s a chance [for Kalvin Phillips to play against Aston Villa]. Today, I have to see training in the afternoon and see how the players are and feel. The decision will be made tomorrow”, Guardiola said, as quoted by the club on Twitter.
Kalvin Phillips must grab his chance of impressing potential suitors
Regardless of how Kalvin Phillips performs against Aston Villa, it seems like Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola does not trust him enough to emerge as a reliable member of his squad.
Into his second season at City, the Englishman has started just one game across all competitions, which sums up his status at the club.
However, if Kalvin Phillips intends to secure a loan move in January, he must impress against Unai Emery’s side.
While a lack of match fitness may play a part in why Phillips has largely looked out of his depth when on the pitch for the Sky Blues, suitors may potentially shy away from his signature if he puts in yet another unconvincing display.
But if started from the off, the treble-winner should do all in his power to step up and rescue his stagnating career.
