- Pep Guardiola had a decision to make in 2022
- He opted to sign Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United
- Had the option to secure a far superior option
Manchester City had the chance to sign Declan Rice, but Pep Guardiola made what might just be the biggest mistake of his career in England.
Pep Guardiola is the greatest Man City manager of all-time, and he was able to reach this level thanks to some excellent transfer windows.
The Catalan already inherited a squad full of talented players such as David Silva and Sergio Aguero, but he continued to add top class stars of his own.
However, Guardiola did not have the finest moment four years ago, when he rejected the opportunity to sign one of the best players in the country.
Pep Guardiola chose Kalvin Phillips over Declan Rice
According to The Telegraph, Guardiola was deciding whether to sign Kalvin Phillips or Declan Rice in the summer of 2022.
In the end, he went for Phillips, believing the now 30-year-old to have a better passing range, and scanning abilities.
Guardiola recognised his mistake a year later, as Man City made an effort to beat Arsenal to secure Rice’s signature, but they were unsuccessful.
Phillips never got going at Man City
Despite joining City four years ago, Phillips has only made 32 appearances for the club, highlighting why signing him was a poor decision.
It always seemed strange that the Sky Blues went for him in the first place. After all, the England international’s style was very defensive, while he had few attacking qualities.
This did not seem to be in line with Guardiola’s existing team, and clearly what he had to offer was not aligned with Man City’s needs.
What will come next for Kalvin Phillips?
Phillips has been sent on loan three times since joining City, spending temporary spells at West Ham, Ipswich Town and Sheffield United respectively.
Sheffield United are keen to keep Phillips next season, and he could join them on a free transfer considering his contract is about to expire.
The Citizens have a midfield situation of their own, but are looking to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.
