Pep Guardiola provides transfer insight into Kalvin Phillips replacement at Manchester City

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Published on 2024-01-25 14:21:01

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed the potential departure of Kalvin Phillips and whether the team will look to replace him during the current transfer window.

Phillips, 28, is close to finalizing a six-month loan deal with West Ham United after struggling to secure regular game time with Manchester City.

This move will give him the chance to play consistently and potentially secure a spot in the England squad for the upcoming European Championships.

Some have expressed concerns about the impact of Phillips’ departure on Manchester City’s squad depth for the crucial second half of the season.

However, Guardiola indicated during a pre-match press conference that the team is unlikely to enter the transfer market to replace Phillips.

This statement came shortly after the club announced the signing of Claudio Echeverri, an Argentina youth international who will join the team at the end of the year following a loan spell with River Plate.

It is currently unclear what Manchester City and the wider City Group plan to do with Echeverri upon his arrival in European football, with some speculating that he could be loaned to Girona.

Additionally, the club is considering loan deals for youth players like Kian Breckin for the second half of the season.

Guardiola’s comments suggest that Manchester City may not seek a direct replacement for Phillips, opting to work with the current squad and incoming players like Echeverri.

This decision aligns with the team’s approach to utilizing youth players and managing squad depth effectively. As the January transfer window approaches its end, the club will continue to assess its options and make strategic decisions to strengthen the team for the remainder of the season.

Read Original article on City Xtra