Kalvin Phillips Takes on New Role in Manchester City Training Ahead of Barcelona Match
As Manchester City continues its pre-season tour in the United States, manager Pep Guardiola faces the challenge of missing several key players. With the team already halfway through their trip, they have encountered tough competition, losing matches against Celtic and AC Milan. However, the focus for Guardiola remains on player development rather than results, especially with many stars still unavailable.
Players who participated in the recent Euro 2024 and Copa America tournaments have not yet returned to the squad, leaving Guardiola with limited options. So far, only Mateo Kovacic and Josko Gvardiol have rejoined the team, allowing the coach to evaluate several fringe and young players.
One player who has been in the spotlight during this pre-season is Kalvin Phillips. After a challenging loan spell at West Ham, Phillips has faced criticism for his performances against Celtic and AC Milan. Despite these setbacks, he is set to play again in the upcoming match against Barcelona, where he has been seen training in a rather unexpected position.
During a recent training session, Phillips was observed partnering with Gvardiol in a centre-back role. This shift in position comes as City works on their defensive structure ahead of the high-profile clash. In this particular drill, Phillips and Gvardiol formed a central defensive duo, while Josh Wilson-Esbrand played as a left-back and Rico Lewis occupied the right flank. Nico O’Reilly and Kovacic were tasked with the holding midfield roles.
Reports indicate that Phillips was instructed to push into midfield during pressing situations, allowing the back four to transition into a back three. This tactical adjustment showcases Guardiola’s willingness to experiment with player roles during pre-season, especially when the squad is short on numbers.
Phillips’ experience as a centre-back is not entirely new; he previously filled this role during his first pre-season with Manchester City when senior options were limited. However, this latest development raises questions about his future in the squad, particularly as he has yet to establish himself as a reliable defensive midfielder.
The concept of a hybrid role has gained traction in football, with players like John Stones successfully adapting to such positions. Stones has demonstrated how to seamlessly transition between defensive and midfield duties, and Phillips may be tasked with a similar responsibility against Barcelona.
The upcoming match against Barcelona presents an intriguing opportunity for Phillips to showcase his versatility and adaptability on the pitch. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he performs in this unfamiliar role and whether he can rise to the occasion.
As the pre-season progresses, the dynamics within the Manchester City squad will continue to evolve. With key players still absent, the emphasis on experimentation and player development remains crucial. Phillips’ ability to adapt to different roles could play a significant part in his future with the club, as well as in the overall success of the team’s pre-season campaign.
As the match against Barcelona approaches, all eyes will be on Phillips and his performance in this unique position. Will he rise to the challenge and prove his worth to Guardiola, or will he continue to struggle in a team that is still finding its footing?
