‘How did Southgate leave this out of the Euros squad?’: Kalvin Phillips was ridiculed on social media after a mistake in Manchester City’s pre-season friendly defeat to AC Milan in New York.
The former West Ham loanee has yet to find his feet after a poor spell at West Ham last summer. He received the ball on the edge of his own box after a pass from , gave away possession and was unable to defend his own mistake. Fortunately for Pep Guardiola’s side, AC Milan were unable to capitalise on the error and the score remained level. However, despite goals from Erling Haaland and James McAtee, the Citizens lost the match 3-2.
You can see the error here: Jacky (@MCFC_Jacky) on X
England international Kalvin Phillips has endured a difficult time at the Etihad since joining Manchester City from boyhood club Leeds in July 2022, despite winning two Premier League titles, a Champions League, an FA Cup and a Club World Cup. The defensive midfielder has struggled to get consistent playing time, starting just two Premier League games in two seasons. He played just 89 minutes of Premier League football last season before joining West Ham on loan in January.
Phillips endured a torrid time in east London, making ten appearances in all competitions. He was brought in straight away despite not having played much football for over a year. It was clear he wasn’t fit enough and he put in some dreadful performances in Claret and Blue. He only started twice for West Ham, conceding a goal in the first and being sent off for picking up two yellow cards in three minutes in the second. This lack of form saw him miss out on Gareth Southgate’s call-up for Euro 2024, a team he was a crucial part of in 2021.
The Evening Standard has reported that the former Leeds man is desperate to leave Manchester City for good in order to reinvent himself, however, there have been no serious links so far this summer. CaughtOffside sources understand that Juventus, Everton, Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa are all vying for his services. However, the Blues are said to be demanding £30m for his sale, so another loan move could be likely.
