This may be the real reason Man City signed Kalvin Phillips – pundit
Frank McAvennie has suggested Man City may have signed Kalvin Phillips as cover for Rodri.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-West Ham striker said it was surprising that City signed Phillips but he could provide cover in case Rodri leaves the club this summer.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano (7 July), the Citizens will begin contract talks with the Spaniard, 26, in the coming weeks.
They are also said to be opening discussions with Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden.
Rodri joined the Light Blues in 2019 from Atletico Madrid and has two years remaining on his current contract with the club.
Pep Guardiola has already signed another defensive midfielder in Kalvin Phillips, 26.
The England international put pen to paper on a six-year deal with the Manchester club.
When asked for his assessment of the latest, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I’m surprised they bought Phillips.
“I’m really surprised because I thought Rodri came into a game last season. I thought he was outstanding in that position.
“I can’t see him playing both of them. So maybe that’s why he bought Phillips, maybe Rodri wants to leave, wants a new challenge.
“I could see him going and challenging himself somewhere else. That’s what Phillips would be there for.“
Rodri made 46 appearances for the champions across all competitions last season.
He scored seven goals and provided two assists in that time.
In other news, an expert has suggested Man City must make ‘big changes’ as multiple new Premier League rules introduced.