Kalvin Phillips has failed to impress in Manchester City’s final pre-season friendly against Atletico Madrid.
The England international came on as a second-half substitute in Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to the La Liga side in Seoul.
After coming on in the 55th minute as Pep Guardiola rotated his side, it presented Phillips with an opportunity to stake his claim for selection for next weekend’s Community Shield clash against Arsenal.
Unfortunately, Phillips’s performance failed to make a significant impression. He looked at times lost in the middle of the park. His positioning looked out of touch with his teammates in midfield. As Atletico pressed forward it was an unfortunate Phillips mistake that lead to Memphis Depay’s opening goal. The pass to Dias left the defender all at sea, and the Dutchman took full advantage to open the scoring.
The performance followed an alarming trend of Phillips looking out of step with his teammates. After a tough first season at the Etihad, it has been hoped he would press on this season. To the England international credit, he seems determined to make his mark at the Etihad. He has spoken of his aim to improve in his second season at the treble winners before pre-season beginning.
Whilst it is only pre-season Kalvin Phillips will need to significantly improve on his friendly performance against Atletico Madrid. Spots in Pep Guardiola’s midfield will be at a premium. Rodri, John Stones and Mateo Kovacic are all seemingly ahead of Phillips in the manager’s eyes.
The challenge is ahead of Kalvin Phillips to gain a more prominent spot in the treble winner’s squad as they seek to defend their crowns this upcoming season.
