Manchester City blocked 27-year-old from leaving despite interest from multiple Premier League clubs - Reports

Manchester City enjoyed an unprecedented amount of success in the 2022-23 season, claiming a first UEFA Champions League crown as they won the treble. The squad underwent a couple of changes the following summer, particularly in midfield, with several key players leaving the club.

The Citizens lost captain Ilkay Gundogan for free after he decided to join Spanish champions FC Barcelona, and almost lost a second midfielder. English midfielder Kalvin Phillips was reportedly targeted by several Premier League sides after failing to make an impression in his time at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed in a press conference at the start of the season that 27-year-old Phillips had chosen to remain at the club. The midfielder was seldom used last season, finding himself behind Rodri and John Stones in the pecking order in his position.

Phillips has racked up only 760 minutes since his £45 million move to the Etihad Stadium last summer from Leeds United. According to Football Insider, the Englishman was blocked from leaving the club towards the end of the window despite interest from Premier League sides.

Creative genius Kevin De Bruyne picked up a serious injury in the opening weeks of the season, leading to a potential midfield crisis. Mateo Kovacic also picked up a knock as the transfer window came to a close, leading to the club refusing to entertain offers for Phillips.

Kalvin Phillips looks increasingly likely to leave the Etihad Stadium in 2024 as his situation remains unchanged in Guardiola's eyes. The midfielder has started just one game for the Citizens this season - their 0-1 EFL Cup loss to Newcastle United.

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Manchester City face tough task to repeat success

Last season was arguably the best for City boss Guardiola as he finally proved his doubters wrong and won his first Champions League title since 2011. He did so with the complement of a full squad which had an incredible goalscorer in Erling Haaland.

This season, Manchester City started with renewed vigour, but consecutive defeats have seen them drop to third in the Premier League. They have also been knocked out of the Carabao Cup, having lost to Newcastle United.

Rivals have sprung up in the league, including Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and a resurgent Liverpool side. They look well-equipped to take the fight to an arguably weaker Manchester City side from the one that won the treble, and it will make for interesting viewing.

Guardiola will be aware of his rivals' strengths, having already lost to one of them. It remains to be seen if his side can claim a fourth successive league crown this season.