Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has apologised to Kalvin Phillips for his lack of playing time and according to English sources, Manchester United are interested in the 28-year-old midfielder, who’s already been linked with a move to Juventus.
Phillips is expected to leave Etihad Stadium in the January transfer window as he’s only made eight appearances with the Premier League champions this term.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s league game against Luton, Guardiola apologised to the ex-Leeds star confirming that his future at the club is uncertain.
“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,” said the Spanish tactician.
“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.
According to the latest reports from English papers, as quoted by Sky Sports UK, the Red Devils have made Phillips their top transfer target for the winter transfer window.