Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has apologised to Kalvin Phillips for his lack of opportunities. The England international has only made 21 appearances for the club since arriving from Leeds United last summer.
It would appear that Phillips will depart the European champions in January. He has been linked with a move in the upcoming transfer window with Newcastle, Juventus, Tottenham and Liverpool have all been reported as possible destinations for the England international as reported by Dan Marsh of the Mirror.
Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Luton Town on Sunday Pep Guardiola apologized to the midfielder. He told the media: “I don’t know what’s going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I’ve said that many times. He doesn’t deserve what has happened to him and I’m so sorry.”
The Manchester City manager also explained that he struggles to visualise a role for Kalvin Phillips. Guardiola also admitted he is disappointed in himself for how Phillips time at the club has turned out. He added: “It’s just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things – and I struggle to see him. I’m not very pleased (with myself) and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that (to him) because it is a business and I have to be a professional.”
While Kalvin Phillips hasn’t had the opportunities at the treble winners he has stayed professional and not caused any issues. If a January move does materialise he will depart the club with the well wishes of everybody associated with Manchester City due to his exceptional character and the way he has handled himself during his testing time at the club.
