Kalvin Phillips’ future is once again in doubt this summer as his torrid spell at Man City continues, three years after leaving Leeds United for The Etihad.
In the summer of 2022, Phillips left boyhood club Leeds for City. While it was painful for Leeds fans to lose the England international, many understood his decision to join Pep Guardiola’s City that summer.
But Phillips has had it tough. Injuries, the form of Rodri and constant criticism from Guardiola in press conferences have since seen Phillips lose confidence and go on loan to both West Ham and Ipswich.
He flopped at West Ham, making mistakes, picking up a red card and suffering injury. It has been a bit better at Ipswich, but he’s managed just 22 appearances this season and Ipswich have been relegated.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Kalvin Phillips posts on Instagram as he leaves Ipswich Town
With Ipswich relegated and Phillips boasting three years on the six-year deal contract he signed in 2022, he is now returning to City. The midfielder took to Instagram on Monday, confirming his departure.
He thanked the club’s supporters for their affection during his time in East Anglia, while also praising manager Kieran McKenna for restoring his confidence and love for football ahead of a return to City.
He said: “A frustrating end to a tough season. I just wanted to say thank you Ipswich. Thank you to the fans for making me and my family feel so loved after a difficult 2 years. Thank you to the staff & players.
“An unbelievable group that I loved being around everyday. And a special thanks to the manager, a great manager but also a great person, who’s helped me on and off the pitch in so many ways,” Phillips added.
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“He made me believe in myself again. I have no doubt Ipswich will be back where they belong very soon and I wish everyone at the club all the best,” the England midfielder summarised in his post on Instagram.
What Kalvin Phillips has decided regarding a return to Leeds
Ever since his time at City was met with complications, Phillips has been linked with a return to Leeds. This summer, Leeds have the best chance of signing Phillips again and being able to afford the City midfielder.
Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that Phillips wants to come back to Leeds this summer. It is not known if Leeds want to bring the star back, though some reports suggest Leeds are interested.
Certainly, Leeds need midfielders. Joe Rothwell and Josuha Guilavogui are set to leave, and The Whites will need steel in the middle of the park when it comes to taming some of the Premier League’s best.