Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed regret over not giving Kalvin Phillips more opportunities to play. Phillips, who joined City in 2022, has found it challenging to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup, leading to loan spells at West Ham United and Ipswich Town.

Guardiola acknowledged Phillips's limited playing time, suggesting that the midfielder's style might be better suited to a role where he can see the entire game in front of him. He noted that Phillips sometimes struggles in congested spaces. Despite these challenges, Guardiola has also stated that Phillips has helped the team, particularly during their tour, and that the player's confidence has returned.

Phillips's time at Manchester City has been marked by both success and difficulty. He was part of the squad that won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in his debut season, achieving a historic treble. However, opportunities on the pitch have been limited. In 2023, he scored his first goal for City with a penalty in a Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade. In total, Phillips has played 380 minutes in the Premier League for Man City.

A move was expected, only for Achilles surgery at the beginning of the window to ruin any chance of another opportunity. Having stayed at the Etihad despite not being part of City's plans, Phillips is training with the first team as he works his way back from injury.

Guardiola has indicated that Phillips could potentially return to City's matchday squad, although the prospect remains uncertain. He mentioned that Phillips is training with the team after recovering from surgery and may get some playing time in future games.

Earlier in their association, comments made by Guardiola regarding Phillips's weight after the 2022 World Cup created complications in subsequent transfer discussions. Phillips admitted that these comments were frustrating, as his weight was consistently brought up in discussions with managers and nutritionists at various clubs. Guardiola has since apologized for his remarks.

Phillips has lauded Guardiola's tactical acumen, recounting how the manager's precise instructions and predictions during team meetings would materialize on the field. He is currently on loan at Ipswich Town, where he aims to regain fitness and play regularly. He mentioned that it was draining knowing he was not going to play on the weekend, and it got to the point where he knew he probably was not going to play much because of the players in front of him.