Kalvin Phillips to Man City is officially a done deal. The player has left his boyhood club Leeds Utd in a £45m deal. It is a wise piece of business considering the fees. However, the price tag is not the only plus point in this transfer. Here, we’ll talk about why Kalvin Phillips to Man City is a genius move by Pep’s team.
Phillips plays a CDM for Leeds and the England national team. He came through the ranks at Leeds before making his name under Bielsa. Besides, Phillips played a vital part in Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League. However, is he good enough to make it into Pep’s first team? That might take some time to answer. However, on paper, he seems like the ideal fit for the City squad.
Pep is a big admirer of Bielsa, Phillips’ former boss at Leeds. Besides, the two coaches share a similar style of play. Bielsa mostly used Phillips as a single pivot in his 3-man midfield. It is the same idea that Pep uses for his Man City teams. As such, Phillips already knows what to expect at his new club. He’ll be aware of his responsibilities at the heart of Pep’s midfield. However, he will join the team as an understudy of Rodri. Nevertheless, Phillips also excelled in a double pivot in England’s run to the final at Euro 2020. So, it also remains an option for a new look City team.
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Will Phillips to Man City lead to less playing time?
It is likely that Pep will stick to his single-pivot midfield next season. As such, Phillips will not be a regular starter from the beginning. However, several City midfielders have uncertain futures at the club. Gundogan and Silva are reportedly seeking to join new clubs. Moreover, fellow CDM, Fernandinho has already left at the expiry of his contract. It will lead to more chances for Phillips to make an impact there. Besides, the PL will have five subs from next season onwards. It is one other factor that will work in his favour. Regardless, his fitness levels must be well suited for the high-pressing style of Man City’s game. So, he promises to slot in well with his new teammates if called on.
Notably, the news of Phillips to Man City is a hit among the England fans. However, they will hope that he has game time on his legs during the 2022 World Cup in Nov. Nevertheless, at 26, he will feel that he is at the right place at the right time. You can watch his first interview as a City player here.
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