Ipswich Town is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season in the Premier League, where they were relegated after managing just four wins and 22 points. The team’s struggles were epitomized by Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who had a forgettable loan spell at Ipswich, starting only 14 matches due to injuries and failing to make a significant impact.
Kalvin Phillips’ Surprise Return to Manchester City
In a surprising turn of events, Phillips is set to be included in Pep Guardiola’s 25-man Premier League squad for the upcoming season. This comes after Phillips’ struggles to break into the City team, making only 16 Premier League appearances since joining from Leeds United in 2022. His loan spells at West Ham United and Ipswich Town also failed to yield the desired results ¹ ².
Phillips’ Career Trajectory
Phillips’ career has taken a downward spiral since his £45 million move to Manchester City. Despite showing promise as a young player, he has struggled to adapt to Guardiola’s system and has been plagued by injuries and fitness issues. Guardiola has previously expressed concerns about Phillips’ fitness levels, stating that he returned to the club “overweight” after the World Cup ³.
Potential Impact on Ipswich Town
Ipswich Town may be surprised by Phillips’ inclusion in Manchester City’s squad, given his disappointing spell at the club. However, Phillips’ determination to prove himself and force his way back into Guardiola’s plans could lead to a compelling renaissance story. If Phillips can rediscover his form, he may become a valuable asset for Manchester City, potentially providing depth in midfield ⁴.
