Man City have no plans to recall Kalvin Phillips in January after Rodri’s injury, sources have told Football Insider.
The Spain international, 28, is expected to miss the rest of the 2024-25 campaign after an anterior cruciate ligament tear.
Phillips, also 28, was shipped out on his second loan of 2024 in the summer window.
He joined Ipswich Town on a season-long deal in a bid to get his career back on track and City have no plans to cut that move short.
The midfielder sat out the first two league games this term but started twice for the Tractor Boys against Fulham and Brighton before missing the draw against Southampton through injury.
Manager Kieran McKenna has confirmed the injury is “very small”, quelling any concerns after his recent struggles for fitness.
Phillips was signed as an understudy to Rodri in 2022 but has made just 31 appearances for City across three seasons.
Phillips not set for Man City return in January
He endured a torrid time with West Ham on loan in the second half of the 2023-24 campaign, playing just 320 minutes of action during his time at the London Stadium.
Rodri is a key man for City and they are drawing up plans to replace his impact as they chase another Premier League title.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (24 September) Pep Guardiola would now like to add to his midfield options in the January window.
Rodri played 50 club games last term and has hit out at football bosses for scheduling problems.
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