The Return of Kalvin Phillips? A Risk Worth Taking for Leeds United?

Recent reports suggest that Kalvin Phillips could be on his way out of Manchester City, having fallen out of favour under Pep Guardiola. The Leeds-born midfielder made a £42 million move to City in 2022, but after three injury-hit seasons, underwhelming loan spells, and a struggle to break into the first team, he now looks set for a fresh start — with some sources quoting a potential transfer fee as low as £10 million.

Naturally, Leeds United have been named as early favourites for his signature. The emotional connection between Phillips and the club — especially following our return to the Premier League — makes the link obvious. But after his struggles in recent years, many fans might feel it’s time to move on and focus on other targets.

Kalvin Under Bielsa: A Midfield Engine

There’s no denying that during the Marcelo Bielsa era, Phillips was the heartbeat of the team. He was tough, tireless, and had an impressive range of passing. Like many players under Bielsa, he improved dramatically and became a crucial part of the system. If there’s any chance of getting that Kalvin back, then £10 million could be a bargain.

And if there’s one club where he’s most likely to rediscover his best form, it’s probably Leeds United.

Life After Leeds: A Career That Stalled

In his first season at Manchester City, Phillips featured for just 595 minutes across 21 appearances. It’s worth noting that he was behind Rodri, arguably the best defensive midfielder in the world, so competition was fierce.

He was then loaned to West Ham in his second season but struggled to impress, making just 10 appearances in what many saw as a poor spell.

This past season, he joined newly promoted Ipswich Town — who were ultimately relegated with games to spare. Phillips made 22 appearances but again failed to make a significant impact.

Experience and Leadership Still Count

Despite his form, Phillips brings a wealth of experience. From being part of a treble-winning squad at City to enduring relegation scraps with both Leeds and Ipswich, he’s seen both ends of the Premier League spectrum.

He understands what it means to wear the Leeds shirt, and that emotional connection could unlock his passion and confidence again. Sometimes, a familiar setting is all a player needs to revive their career.

Injury Concerns

One red flag is his ongoing fitness. Phillips has battled injuries ever since leaving Leeds and is currently sidelined with an Achilles injury — not something that will inspire confidence in fans or the medical team.

A Gamble Worth Taking?

At £10 million, Kalvin Phillips would be a calculated risk. He could turn out to be a smart piece of business — or another injury-prone signing who never quite gets back to his best.

But for a player who understands the club, the fans, and the fight it takes to stay in the

top flight, it might just be worth it.

What Do You Think, Leeds Fans?

Would you welcome Kalvin Phillips back? Or is this one we need to pass on?

Let us know on our message board.