Kalvin Phillips, once named England’s Player of the Year, has experienced a drastic decline in his career less than three years later. This downfall can be pinpointed back to his £43 million move from Leeds United to Manchester City in 2022. Despite his initial optimism, he struggled to make an impact at City, making only nine starts in all competitions during his time at the club.
A Change in Fortunes at West Ham United
After being overlooked by manager Gareth Southgate for England’s friendlies, Phillips’ loan spell at West Ham United was supposed to revitalize his career. However, he was off to a rocky start, conceding a goal with his first touch in his debut match against Bournemouth. His struggles continued as he was sent off in another game against Nottingham Forest.
The Influence of Southgate
Southgate’s influence played a significant role in Phillips’ decision to join West Ham instead of pursuing a move to Juventus. However, despite Southgate’s support, Phillips’ form has not been up to par. Southgate expressed his desire for Phillips to rediscover his best form, emphasizing his importance to the England squad.
One of the main obstacles standing in Phillips’ way of regaining his form is his confidence. Sources suggest that rebuilding his confidence is a daunting task, given the setbacks he has faced in recent years. It remains to be seen whether Phillips can overcome these challenges and earn a spot in the England squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany.
As Phillips navigates through a turbulent period in his career, the uncertainty surrounding his future for both club and country looms large. With rumors of a potential permanent exit from Manchester City at the end of the season, Phillips faces an uphill battle to prove his worth and earn a place in Southgate’s plans for the future.
Kalvin Phillips’ journey from the highs of being named England’s Player of the Year to the lows of being overlooked by both club and country serves as a cautionary tale of missed opportunities and the challenges of rebuilding one’s career in the face of adversity. As he grapples with the pressure to rediscover his best form and prove his worth on the pitch, the road ahead remains uncertain for the talented midfielder. Only time will tell whether Phillips can rise from the ashes and reclaim his rightful place among England’s elite.
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