The struggles of Kalvin Phillips during his time at Manchester City are well known. Since arriving at the club from Leeds United Phillips has only made 31 appearances for the world champions. He also spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham. It has certainly been a torrid time for the England international since he arrived at City. But during Manchester City’s friendly against Barcelona earlier this week Phillips produced a superb performance. Is that a sign that he could play a role for Manchester City this season? That is something to ponder going forward.
During City’s penalty defeat to Barcelona in Orlando, Kalvin Phillips played as a centre-back. It was a completely different role for the England international to play rather than in the heart of midfield. When he plays in midfield for Pep Guardiola’s side Phillips looks out of place or a step too slow in midfield. But playing as a centre-back for Manchester City seemed to suit the strengths of Phillips’s game.
What stood out in the performance of Kalvin Phillips against Barcelona was his ability to play a long ball. He has always had that ability but it isn’t a skill he has been able to show for Manchester City. Playing in defence unlocked one of the strengths of Phillips’s game. He also had more time on the ball and showcased an ability to drift forward. Although it was only one friendly there was plenty to like from Kalvin Phillips against Barcelona.
But is it enough to save the City career of the England international? While he showed he can play as a centre-back, it’s an area of the pitch that is well covered. With Josko Gvardiol, Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias and John Stones all in City’s squad Phillips would face an uphill battle to force his way into Pep Guardiola’s squad. Based on that fact alone it is unlikely Phillips’s impressive performance against Barcelona could see him force his way into Pep Guardiola’s plans.
It has taken a while but the performance from Kalvin Phillips during the week was full of promise. It was good to see the England international finally show what he is capable of in a City shirt. If he can repeat that against Chelsea during a City’s last pre-season friendly in the United States it may help him force his way into Pep Guardiola’s plans for this season. Though that is an unlikely possibility, stranger things than that have happened in football.
