Pep Guardiola apologizes to Kalvin Phillips for weight criticism

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly apologized to Kalvin Phillips for fat-shaming him after the 2022 World Cup. Phillips, currently on loan at West Ham, revealed that Guardiola's comments had a significant impact on him. Guardiola admitted that the mistake was the only time in his City reign he made such an error. Phillips emphasized the importance of handling such situations differently and the need for sensitivity and respect in addressing players' fitness issues.

Zor

February 20, 2024

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly apologized to Kalvin Phillips for fat-shaming him following the 2022 World Cup. Phillips, currently on loan at West Ham, revealed that Guardiola’s comments about his weight had a significant impact on him. Guardiola admitted that criticizing Phillips for being 1.5kg overweight was a mistake and apologized, stating that it was the only time in his City reign he made such an error.

He emphasized that he had spoken to Phillips privately before making the comments public. Phillips, 28, struggled to secure regular playing time at City, starting only two Premier League games in 18 months. His move to West Ham was aimed at preserving his England place ahead of the Euros, but he has faced challenges, including errors leading to goals and a recent red card.

Reflecting on his time at City, Phillips mentioned that Guardiola’s remarks had affected his confidence and family. He described the period after the World Cup as tough and emphasized the importance of handling such situations differently. Guardiola’s apology signifies recognition of the impact his words had on Phillips, highlighting the need for sensitivity and respect in addressing players’ fitness issues.