Kalvin Phillips told how Pep Guardiola will elevate his game at Man City

Kalvin Phillips has been advised to embrace his opportunity to learn from Pep Guardiola and Rodri at Manchester City after signing for the Premier League champions this summer.

Having progressed through the ranks at hometown club Leeds to emerge as one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League over the last 18 months, Phillips was identified as a priority target for City this summer. Erling Haaland and back-up goalkeeper Stefan Ortega have also signed, with Julian Alvarez arriving after being loaned back to River Plate.

Phillips, 26, might initially find it difficult to break into the team given that Rodri excelled in the defensive midfield role last season. However, if the England international takes note, there is no reason why he will not be able to go on and displace his City teammate in the engine room.

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Tim Sherwood, speaking on behalf of 888sport, said: "I like [Kalvin] Phillips. Pep [Guardiola] normally plays with the one pivot and when Phillips plays alongside Declan Rice for England, you don't need two of them in that block.

"Both are capable of playing in there on their own and they have more to their game. Kalvin can drive with the ball and he's got good pace and he can break up the game, too."

Sherwood added: "He's going to learn from Rodri who probably passes the ball forward a little bit more and I think it's a great signing, I really do. Pep Guardiola very rarely gets it wrong - and Kalvin has all the characteristics to be a top-drawer player.

"When Pep comes knocking, you have to go. If you want to be the best, you have to work with the best teachers and there isn't a better one than him. It's a magnificent move for the kid and I hope he gets