Leeds United fans appear to be divided on whether they would welcome Kalvin Phillips back. The former Whites midfielder has been linked with a move away from Manchester City, where he joined for about £42 million a year ago.
Phillips has failed to persuade Pep Guardiola that he can fit into the Manchester City system, despite claims that the two have had a fractious relationship in recent months. In the summer, the former Leeds star was extensively linked with a move away from City, but he chose to stay and battle for his spot.
Rodri has kept Phillips out of the team for the most part, but with the Spaniard suspended for the last two games, Guardiola has gone with Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis ahead of Phillips, and the writing appears to be on the wall, especially with the European Championships coming up next summer. According to i News, Everton and Newcastle United are interested in a January deal, and some Leeds fans may be hoping for a return.
Leeds are unlikely to be able to re-sign Phillips now that they are in the Championship, but we asked supporters on X whether they would consider a return if money was not a factor. The following are some of the responses we received:
@JezH25215: “No, because we’re not set up to play like Bielsa.” Even Pep recognizes that he cannot get the best out of Phillips like Bielsa.”
“Not for me, Leeds have moved on from KP,” says @TheMagpies009. Ampadu is miles ahead of Gray, who is learning every game under Farke; if he does return, who will he replace?”
– @AndrewKearns11 “Yes KP and Ampadu could play together especially when playing the better teams personally think Archie will be a 10 in years to come.”
@Rich497 – “Also, for those saying no, that is completely mental. He’s an amazing player who left to join the best team in the world.” “Wake up, we’re a championship team, and you wouldn’t take him back if money wasn’t an issue.”
“Yes,” says @Godders17. I believe he is afraid to give the ball away in that city squad, which is why he always passes sideways and back. He has the ability to easily ping a 40-yard throw out to the wingers. He only needs the freedom to do it.”
“Absolutely not,” says @SJDewar1990. Ampadu, Gray, and Kamara have been fantastic for us; it would be unfair to them if he simply walked back in.”
– @Francescoli_E “I still like Kalvin and think he’s a great player, but he’s not for me.” He hasn’t played many games in two seasons (his last year with us and then Man City) and has been highly injury prone, so he’s not worth the risk for Leeds, in my opinion. “However, I wish him the best.”
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