When Kalvin Phillips joined Manchester City from Leeds United last summer, most would be forgiven for thinking that the Blues hierarchy had once again struck gold in signing one of England's most impressive young midfielders.
Fast forward almost 18 months and the picture couldn't be more different, with the 27-year-old a mere rotation player under Pep Guardiola, with his days maybe even numbered at the Etihad Stadium.
With Rodri recently missing for all three of City's defeats to Newcastle, Wolves and Arsenal, Phillips had a gilt-edged chance to once again show manager Guardiola, and many unconvinced supporters, that he is the man for the job in a City shirt. ALSO READ: Ballon d'Or 2023 winner ‘leaked’ as Erling Haaland battles Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe ALSO READ: Kyle Walker opens up on bust-up with Arsenal coach after Man City defeat What transpired were three losses and three sub-par performances from Phillips, with even youngster Rico Lewis again showing why he is another player ahead of the Yorkshireman in the City pecking order.
Unlucky not to get a better opportunity nor run of games, that period could now spell the end for him in a City shirt. According to FootballInsider recently, City are already weighing up the chance to offload Phillips in January, with both Newcastle United and West Ham thought to be keen on agreeing a deal to bring in the former Leeds man on a permanent deal.
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