Pep Guardiola has insisted he will not block Kalvin Phillips' path if the midfielder decides to leave Manchester City in January, but stressed the final decision rests with the club. The England international, 27, has struggled for game time at the Etihad and is considering his options to secure a spot in Gareth Southgate's squad for Euro 2024.
Phillips revealed after England's 3-1 win over Italy on Tuesday that he must make a decision on his future in the coming months, having turned down a summer exit to fight for his place. However, he has yet to start a Premier League game this season, with his only start coming in the Carabao Cup.
Guardiola praised Phillips' professionalism, calling him "one of the most generous players I've ever seen." The City manager reiterated his policy of not standing in a player's way if they wish to leave, but added: "The last word belongs to the club." Guardiola also confirmed Rodri will return from suspension for Saturday's clash with Brighton, a game he described as "one of the toughest tests."
Guardiola heaped praise on Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who has been linked with a future role at City. "He's proving you don't need to be at a top club to get the team to play the way you want," Guardiola said. "Everything he does makes sense."
