Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that out-of-favour Kalvin Phillips struggles with certain key aspects of the game as a midfielder.
After struggling early in Man City’s pre-season tour of the US, Guardiola started deploying Phillips as a centre-back. While not a natural, the Englishman, to his credit, has performed well as a defender. This could be an indication that Guardiola no longer sees the 28-year-old as a midfielder.
Shock move? Guardiola hints at Kalvin Phillips position change
Guardiola recently admitted that Phillips struggles in tight spaces, stating, “He is a central midfielder, but I said many times Kalvin likes to see all the game in front of him. When he is in the middle surrounded by players he struggles a little bit. But he helped us a lot in the last couple of games on tour. I should have seen that before. His confidence is back.”
This isn’t the first time Guardiola has raised this issue. Previously, he acknowledged, “I know Kalvin when he gets the ball and can see all the pitch in front of him, he’s a really good player. When he has the small spaces, there are more problems. That’s why, with the problems we have, he makes an incredible effort with his position. He was confident with the ball and helps us a lot.”
Phillips’ difficulties were particularly evident in a pre-season friendly against AC Milan, where he lost the ball in a tight space and made no attempt to win it back. It was clear that the former England International was seriously low on confidence.
Guardiola’s dilemma over Phillips
In Guardiola’s system, a midfielder must be composed enough to play out of tight spaces. It is crucial, with much of his game plan revolving around the principles of building from the back. However, the Spaniard has admitted that Phillips lacks those core features he needs as a midfielder.
While Phillips has looked good as a centre-back, Guardiola has many quality options in that position. With that in mind, a move looks likely for the former Leeds player. Clubs like Everton and Galatasaray have reportedly shown interest, and a transfer could provide Phillips with the opportunity to restart his career.
