Leeds United are reportedly working on a deal to bring Kalvin Phillips back to Elland Road, with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola giving the green light for the move. According to reports, Leeds have reached a verbal agreement with the midfielder, who could return in the summer transfer window.
Phillips’ time at Manchester City has been far from successful, and his departure has seemed inevitable for a while. The 29-year-old moved to City in 2022 for £42 million, intended as cover for Rodri. However, injuries and a lack of playing time quickly derailed his spell at the Etihad.
A significant turning point came when Guardiola publicly criticized Phillips’ fitness after the 2022 World Cup. Despite playing just 54 minutes for City that season, Phillips was selected for England’s squad in Qatar. However, upon returning, Guardiola stated that he was “overweight” and not in the right condition to train or play.
The comment sparked widespread criticism and ridicule, forcing Guardiola to apologize a couple of months later. He admitted that his words may have been harsh but insisted he had spoken to Phillips before making the remark publicly. However, by that time, the damage was done. Phillips struggled to earn playing time, making just one Premier League start after City had already secured the title.
Determined to prove himself, Phillips opted to stay at City the following season, but he made only ten appearances before being loaned to West Ham in January 2024. Speaking about the situation, Phillips later admitted that Guardiola’s criticism had severely impacted his confidence and frustrated his family, particularly his mother. He acknowledged that he was slightly over his weight target but felt the situation could have been handled differently.
Now, with his future at City all but over, Phillips has been rebuilding his career at Ipswich, showing signs of regaining his form. His return to Leeds would be a significant move, potentially strengthening their midfield if they secure promotion to the Premier League.