Key Takeaways:
- Manchester City have reportedly recalled Kalvin Phillips to their squad for the upcoming Manchester derby
- Phillips has not featured for City since coming on as a substitute against Urawa Red Diamonds, almost two years ago
- The midfielder endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, spending time on loan at West Ham and Ipswich
Squad Reinstatement for Crucial Derby Fixture
Manchester City are set to recall Kalvin Phillips to their squad ahead of the high-stakes Manchester derby, according to The Telegraph. The 29-year-old midfielder, who had fallen out of favour with Pep Guardiola over the summer, is in line for his first appearance for City in 21 months as they prepare to face rivals Manchester United.
Extended Spell Away from First-Team Football
Phillips, formerly a regular in the England squad, last played competitively for City on 19 December against Urawa Red Diamonds in the FIFA Club World Cup. He entered the match as a substitute and was on the pitch for 13 minutes. Since that outing, nearly two years have passed without a City appearance.
Kalvin Phillips is set to be named in Manchester City's 25-man Premier League squad later today.🏴
The midfielder could be given chance under Pep Guardiola this campaign.
✍️ [@mcgrathmike] pic.twitter.com/8lCQ1rcvTM
— PurelyFootball ℗ (@PurelyFootball) September 12, 2025
During the 2024/25 season, Phillips spent time on loan at Ipswich where the club ultimately suffered relegation. Prior to that, he joined West Ham for the latter half of the campaign, but his tenure in East London was marked by a challenging start – a conceded penalty on debut and a sending off in his fourth match. Across his time at Ipswich, he featured 22 times but struggled to regain form and maintain a place in the England squad.
Circumstances Behind His City Absence
Pep Guardiola had suggested over the summer that Phillips was surplus to requirements, with a smaller squad being favoured. Despite his £45 million move from Leeds in 2022, the midfielder made just 12 appearances during his initial season at the Etihad before being loaned out. The expectation was that Phillips would depart again on loan this summer, but he has now been named in City’s 25-man Premier League squad, offering a fresh opportunity to revitalise his career with the reigning champions.
