12 July 2023 , 13:38
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Kalvin Phillips has revealed that he called his former Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa after breaking down in tears after a poor performance for Manchester City last season.
Phillips has struggled to make an impact since joining City in a £45million transfer last summer. He started just four games in all competitions during his debut campaign, with a shoulder injury hindering his development.
The England international got a rare opportunity in City's 3-1 win over Leicester in April, when Pep Guardiola brought him off the bench for Rodri in the 53rd minute. Phillips could not affect the game and left the Etihad Stadium feeling frustrated and became emotional once he was home.
"The only time that I've felt down about the situation was when Man City played Leicester and I came on for about half an hour, but I was rubbish," he told Sky Sports News. "I can remember going home and I was so upset with myself that I started crying."
Speaking ahead of the launch of Prime Video documentary, Kalvin Phillips: The Road to City , he said he turned to Bielsa. The two had a strong relationship during their four years together at Leeds and the Argentine came good in his hour of need.
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"I got on the phone and messaged Marcelo Bielsa and asked if I could speak to him," he said. "He replied to me within about five hours. I think it was his translator who sent the message, but he said: 'Yes, I'd love to speak to you'. So the translator called me and we had the phone call.
"It was just good to have a chat and he basically told me that I have the ability, it's just down to confidence and being positive. And since that conversation I've been as positive as I can. Getting through that and seeing the rewards coming at the end the season with the treble, it was a nice thing."
Marcelo Bielsa won the Championship with Kalvin Phillips at Leeds in 2020 (Michael Regan/Getty Images)Mirror Football is now on Threads!
There has been some speculation linking Phillips with a transfer this summer, with the signing of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea potentially creating more competition for places in midfield. But he has insisted he will stay and fight for his place in the side.
"I came to Manchester City to win trophies and we won the trophies but I didn't play as much as I wanted to do," he said. "My intention is to stay there. We have just won the Treble, so there is no reason for me to leave other than if I am not playing I will obviously have to think about it. I cannot give it 12 months and say I am not playing so I am going to leave.
"As you have seen with many players at City, it can take quite a while to cement yourself into the team. Hopefully I will enjoy my off season and then work hard when I get back. I've had injuries as well but City have been amazing in helping me get fit.”