Manchester City News
By Tom Procter
Published on 2024-07-31 07:35:00
Kalvin Phillips had struggled in Manchester City’s previous pre-season games but performed better against Barcelona. Pep Guardiola played Phillips as a centre-back in the game, a position he had played in his first pre-season at the club. Guardiola made this move due to Phillips’ struggles in tight spaces. Phillips gave a decent performance in the 2-2 draw, impressing with his passing accuracy and defensive abilities. Manchester Evening News praised his calmness under pressure and positioning in the game.
Despite facing criticism and scrutiny, Phillips showed versatility and adaptability by performing well in an unfamiliar position. Guardiola’s decision to play him at centre-back was a strategic move to maximize Phillips’ strengths on the field. While it may not be a recurring position for Phillips, his solid performance against Barcelona demonstrates his capability to excel in different roles. This move showcases to other clubs that Phillips can be effective in various positions on the pitch, adding depth to his skill set as a player.
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