Kalvin Phillips' Unforgettable Journey at Man City: The Untold Struggles

Kalvin Phillips has spoken candidly about his mental health challenges after facing a tough debut season at Manchester City. Despite his move from Leeds to the other side of the Pennines last summer, the midfielder encountered limited playing opportunities due to a mix of injuries and selection choices.

Phillips, who is 27 years old, had a limited role at City last season, only making 21 appearances. Out of these, he started in just two Premier League matches while City dominated all their rivals to achieve an unprecedented treble.

In an interview with We News, Phillips confessed that his challenging introduction to life at Pep Guardiola's team left him in tears. This emotional moment occurred following his performance as a substitute in City's 3-1 victory over Leicester at the Etihad Stadium in April.

"The only moment I experienced sadness regarding the situation was when I participated in the Man City vs Leicester match for approximately thirty minutes but played poorly," Phillips shared with We News.

"I distinctly recall returning home and feeling so disappointed in my performance that I couldn't help but shed tears."

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Seeking advice from his former manager Marcelo Bielsa, whom Phillips had previously played under at Leeds, proved to be the boost he needed during his match against Leicester last season.

Phillips stated that he contacted Marcelo Bielsa via phone and requested to speak with him. Bielsa responded approximately five hours later, expressing his willingness to engage in the conversation. Although it was the translator who sent the message, Bielsa confirmed his interest. Subsequently, the translator phoned Phillips, allowing them to have their conversation.

I appreciated our conversation where he mentioned that I have the necessary ability; the key is to have confidence and maintain a positive mindset. Ever since that discussion, I have tried my best to remain positive. Enduring that challenging period and witnessing the rewards that followed at the end of the season with the treble was truly gratifying.

'Players are normal people'

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Phillips made just 21 appearances for City last season, including four starts

Phillips is speaking in anticipation of the release of Kalvin Phillips: The Road to City, premiering on Prime Video on July 19.

The 90-minute documentary explores the journey of the English national player, covering his formative years at Leeds, his high-profile transfer to Manchester City, and the setback of an injury prior to the 2022 World Cup. He has expressed optimism that the film will serve as a reminder that footballers are not mere automatons.

"We are ordinary individuals, as evident in the documentary," he commented.

"Surrounded by an incredible family, even on my most challenging days, I could find solace in their ability to make me laugh and bring a smile to my face. The documentary offers a fresh perspective on my life, and highlights the exceptional nature of my family."

During the previous season, Phillips faced criticism from Manchester City manager Guardiola for returning home from the World Cup with England "overweight." Guardiola disclosed that Phillips did not participate in a Carabao Cup match against Liverpool in December due to his condition after World Cup duty.

Pep's weight criticism | 'A lesson learned'

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Pep Guardiola gives Phillips instructions during a game last season

Phillips provided some clarity on the situation and said he had learned some valuable lessons.

He remarked that many individuals believe that being overweight implies a slight excess of five or six kilograms. However, in his case, it was due to his recent trip to New York and subsequent return, followed by attending training at the end of the day.

He had consumed a substantial amount of food throughout the day, and when he weighed himself, he discovered he was two or three kilograms heavier. Consequently, Pep, his coach, was displeased, which is entirely justified considering the higher risk of injury, particularly considering his previous season plagued with injuries. He fully concurred with Pep's dissatisfaction.

"So it's lesson learned and it won't happen again."

A difficult season did end with highlights for Phillips with both club and country.

Man City made history by securing a remarkable treble, triumphing in the Premier League, FA Cup, and securing their first-ever Champions League title. Adding to the excitement, Phillips concluded the season by netting his debut international goal for England in a resounding 7-0 victory over North Macedonia during a Euro 2024 qualifier held at Old Trafford.

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Phillips got his hands on the Premier League trophy...

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The FA Cup...

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And the Champions League!

Phillips is determined to come back even stronger next season despite City's success. "The challenges of my first season at City were expected, especially with the added hurdle of being injured," he expressed.

While on the bench, I endeavored to grasp Pep's desired style of play and absorb as much information as I could. Towards the end of the season, I had the opportunity to participate in a few games, which was truly enjoyable. I felt immense satisfaction in being part of such an exceptional team and experiencing the phenomenal run we had.

Grealish the example

Phillips also takes plenty from the example of England colleague Jack Grealish, who also needed time to settle in to the way Guardiola asks his City side to play.

"Yes, without a doubt, Grealish is someone I can rely on," he emphasized. "I have been acquainted with Jack for several years, and our professional journeys have followed similar trajectories. I am well aware of the immense dedication he has put into achieving his outstanding performance last season. Furthermore, his family shares a striking resemblance to mine in terms of their unwavering support and remarkable character.

"Observing Jack's approach to last season and witnessing his remarkable growth as a footballer, I cannot help but admire him. His interviews reveal a genuinely kind-hearted individual."

"He's incredibly grounded, and when I see him, I see a reflection of myself in Jack. I'm hopeful that the upcoming season will bring me success, and I can finally make progress in my career at Man City and show my gratitude to the team. Unfortunately, due to injuries, I haven't been able to play as much."

When questioned about his determination to succeed at Manchester City, he responded, "Absolutely. It's one of my primary goals. Even as the previous season was coming to a close, I made sure to do everything correctly to prepare myself."

Phillips opens up about his father

Phillips also spoke openly about growing up in Leeds without a father figure in his early life.

Phillips recently shared about his visit to his father Mark, who is currently incarcerated, expressing his desire to support him upon his release. Recalling the visit, he revealed that the time spent with his father felt like they had never been apart.

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Phillips netted his inaugural goal for England during their triumphant 7-0 victory against North Macedonia last month.

"I was genuinely thrilled to witness his presence. It was quite peculiar since I hadn't laid eyes on him for approximately six or seven years. Every time we converse, he never fails to express his immense pride in me. I made it clear that I yearn to support him whenever he emerges."

He expressed his desire for stability, hoping to prevent a relapse. He simply requested one thing from me: the opportunity to travel the world and witness my football games. This heartfelt moment struck me deeply. Instead of asking for material possessions or financial support, his sole wish was to experience the joy of watching me play, indicating his longing for his family and children.

'I'm a normal person at the end of the day'

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​Kalvin Phillips: The Road to City launches on Prime Video on July 19

Fnally, what is Phillips' motivation behind the documentary?

When asked if he is a good example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication, Phillips said: "I hope so.

I haven't had a difficult upbringing, but my mother faced challenges when I was younger. I hope this documentary portrays my family and me as ordinary individuals, demonstrating that I am just a regular person. Despite being a footballer and enjoying luxury and representing one of the world's top teams, I am ultimately still the same Kalvin from Leeds.

I want to emphasize that life isn't all about glamour and luxury - it involves significant effort and may come with its challenges. However, maintaining a positive attitude is crucial in overcoming obstacles and eventually finding success.

​Kalvin Phillips: The Road to City launches on Prime Video on July 19