The England international left Leeds United to join the Citizens’ star-studded midfield line.
Kalvin Phillips has explained his decision to join Manchester City, insisting he is aware of the stiff competition in the Citizens’ squad.
Phillips joined Pep Guardiola’s side on a £42m deal, leaving his childhood club Leeds United.
The 26-year-old is among Gareth Southgate’s main midfield options ahead of the 2022 World Cup. However, his chances of getting a call-up could reduce if he fails to secure a regular spot in City’s lineup.
“It’s a risk and reward thing,” the newly-arrived Man City star told Daily Mail.
“I want to come here and prove myself against the best players in the world.
“I know there will be times I’m pulling my hair out because it is so difficult but that is what I wanted. At Leeds I was the guy who needed to play every game, at City that isn’t the case. I need to get my head around that.”
Phillips will need to adapt to Guardiola’s system at Man City from the next season. The Spanish manager will most likely use Phillips outside his regular territory as a No.6.
Asked about the possibility of playing in a more attacking position, the England international added: “At the Euros it was new to me but I did reasonably well.
“Everything Marcelo taught me was a lot of movement without the ball, creating space for yourself to get on the ball.
“With City, it is moving into spaces to help team-mates get on the ball or getting in position to turn on the ball and play forward all the time.
“It was the opportunity to be coached by Pep. I couldn’t turn it down. Even if Pep’s only here for one more year it will hopefully be a good year.”
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