Manchester City striker Erling Haaland sent a message to Kalvin Phillips after seeing the midfielder bag his first goal for Pep Guardiola's side.
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Haaland currently out injuredPhillips scores in Champions LeagueCity beat Crvena zvezda 3-2WHAT HAPPENED?
Phillips was handed a rare start for Manchester City on Wednesday as the European champions completed their Champions League group stage campaign. It was a good night for Guardiola's side with Phillips netting his first City goal from the penalty spot. Haaland missed the game through injury but certainly enjoyed the goal as he watched his team-mate score from the spot.
Instagram AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Phillips has struggled for game time since moving to City in summer 2022 and was named in the XI for only the second time this season. Guardiola has apologised for not picking Phillips more often but has also said he "struggles" to see him in his team. It would therefore be no surprise to see the midfielder move on in January, particularly as he risks missing out on a place in England's Euro 2024 squad if he spends the rest of the season on the bench. Phillips has reportedly attracted interest from a number of clubs already, including Newcastle, Juventus and even Manchester United.
DID YOU KNOW?
Phillips scored his first goal in all competitions for Man City (30th appearance), and his first in 51 club appearances across his time at Leeds and Man City, since netting against Crewe in August 2021.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR PHILLIPS?
Phillips celebrated his Champions League goal with a wave and a kiss for the City fans. The gesture looked a lot like Phillips was saying thank you and goodbye to fans ahead of a winter move. Despite his goal, Phillips is likely to return to the bench at the weekend as City take on Crystal Palace in the Premier League.