Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has expressed regret to Kalvin Phillips for the limited opportunities he’s had on the field.
Reports from English sources suggest that Manchester United is eyeing the 28-year-old midfielder, previously linked to a potential transfer to Juventus.
Phillips is anticipated to depart from the Etihad Stadium during the January transfer window due to his limited appearances, totaling eight, with the Premier League champions this season.
During a press conference before Sunday’s league match against Luton, Guardiola apologized to the former Leeds player, acknowledging uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
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Guardiola said:
“I feel so sorry about my decisions about him, I am so sorry, but about that, it’s him. That is all I can say.”
“I ask for good behaviour, good personality, good character and he’s a perfect example.
I visualise something, I visualise the team and I struggle to see him. I feel so, so sorry for him.
I would not say that because, in the end, this is a business, and I have to be professional, but for the way he behaves with his teammates and everyone, I care.
That’s why, hopefully, he can turn it around. If he stays, I am more than pleased.”
Phillips joined Manchester City from Leeds in the summer of 2022 for €49m.
He has played 29 games under Pep Guardiola.
The 28-year-old English midfielder has been linked with a January move to Juventus as the Bianconeri need midfield reinforcements following the suspensions of Paul Pogba and Nicolò Fagioli.
However, the Bianconeri will likely face stiff competition next month as more clubs are said to be interested in Phillips, including Newcastle and Manchester United.
