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Manchester City Hold Exit Stance on Kalvin Phillips Amid Rodri Fitness Concerns

Manchester City Hold Exit Stance on Kalvin Phillips Amid Rodri Fitness Concerns

Manchester City have reportedly decided to delay any potential departure for Kalvin Phillips until next summer, as concerns continue to mount over Rodri’s ongoing fitness issues.

According to new reports, the reigning Premier League champions are expected to block a January transfer for the England international, despite long-standing expectations that Phillips would depart the Etihad Stadium midway through the 2025/26 campaign.

The 29-year-old midfielder remains surplus to requirements under Pep Guardiola, yet his availability could become crucial should Rodri’s recovery take longer than anticipated. Phillips’ future was the subject of intense speculation during the summer, following a season-long loan spell at Ipswich Town that helped him regain valuable playing time.

Despite interest from several clubs across England and Europe, no permanent move materialised during the last window, partly due to an Achilles injury that limited his fitness levels and affected negotiations. The setback meant City were reluctant to sanction a transfer until the player had fully recovered.

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Phillips, who joined Manchester City from Leeds United after an impressive spell at Elland Road, was initially seen as the long-term successor to Fernandinho. However, his time at the Etihad has been marred by injuries and a lack of consistent opportunities under Guardiola.

City insiders now suggest that Guardiola wants to retain Phillips at least until the end of the season, citing the importance of midfield depth amid a demanding fixture schedule and the uncertain recovery timeline for Rodri. The Spaniard has struggled to return to peak condition following muscular issues sustained earlier in the campaign.

Phillips recently made his first appearance for Manchester City in nearly 18 months, coming off the bench during the 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Huddersfield Town in September. That cameo hinted at Guardiola’s intent to gradually reintegrate the midfielder into competitive action.

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Since arriving at the Etihad, Phillips has also spent time on loan with West Ham United and Ipswich Town, but his long-term prospects at City remain unclear. Sources close to the player have indicated that Phillips is determined to fight for his place in the squad rather than push for an immediate move.

Manchester City’s stance appears pragmatic: maintain squad depth through the winter, particularly with Rodri’s situation unresolved, and revisit transfer options in the summer of 2026. Whether Phillips can convince Guardiola of his value during that period remains to be seen.

FAQ

  • Is Kalvin Phillips leaving Manchester City?
    Phillips is expected to leave Manchester City on a permanent basis next summer, rather than in the upcoming January transfer window.
  • Why is City blocking his January exit?
    The club’s decision is influenced by Rodri’s ongoing fitness issues, as Guardiola wants to retain midfield cover for the remainder of the season.
  • What injuries has Phillips dealt with?
    Phillips has struggled with multiple setbacks since joining City, including an Achilles problem that hindered transfer opportunities last summer.
  • Has he played for City recently?
    Yes — Phillips featured in the 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Huddersfield Town in September, marking his first appearance in nearly a year and a half.
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Conclusion

Manchester City’s cautious approach regarding Kalvin Phillips’ future highlights the delicate balance between maintaining squad depth and managing individual player careers. While a summer 2026 exit appears likely, Guardiola’s immediate priority remains ensuring midfield stability amid Rodri’s injury setbacks. The coming months could provide Phillips with one final opportunity to revive his career at the Etihad and prove his worth in a competitive City squad.

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