Pep Guardiola has issued an apology to midfielder Kalvin Phillips for not fielding him in the Premier League this season.
His comments have sparked interest from clubs like Liverpool and Newcastle, with Guardiola expressing difficulty envisioning Phillips in the starting lineup.
Despite Rodri’s suspension, Phillips remained an unused substitute in Manchester City’s recent match against Aston Villa, raising doubts about his future.
Guardiola admitted uncertainty about Phillips’ prospects moving forward, especially with the upcoming January transfer window looming.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Guardiola told reporters ahead of City’s trip to Luton on Sunday. “I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I’ve said that many times.
“He doesn’t deserve what has happened to him and I’m so sorry.
“The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn’t do that.
“It’s just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things – and I struggle to see him.
“I’m not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional.”
